[Satellite Today 11-20-08] Thales Alenia Space España, signed an agreement with prime contractor Hispasat for the development and supply of the Redsat Advanced Communication Payload for the AG1 satellite, Thales Alenia Space announced Nov. 20.
     The initiative, part of the European Space Agency’s Artes 11 program, is intended to develop a small geostationary satellite which will enable European players to compete in this segment of the commercial market. The program will develop, manufacture and launch a first satellite mission to provide flight experience and an in-orbit demonstration of the advanced payload and the platform.
     For the payload, Thales Alenia Space will provide the space and ground subassemblies for a broadband multimedia system DVB system. EADS Casa Espacio will develop and produce the antenna system that will provide Ku- and Ka-band communications.