[Satellite TODAY 12-09-09] Boeing has acquired the first on-orbit signals from the WGS-3 spacecraft, the third of six Wideband Global Satcom (WGS) satellites built for the U.S. Department of Defense, Boeing announced Dec. 8.
    Boeing reported that WGS-3, launched Dec. 5 by a United Launch Alliance Delta IV rocket, is functioning normally and ready to begin orbital maneuvers and operational testing.    
    WGS-3 will be placed into geosynchronous orbit over the Atlantic Ocean. Its payload aims to provide reconfigurable coverage areas and the ability to connect U.S. military X-band and Ka-band users anywhere within their field of view.
    Boeing is building three more WGS satellites for the U.S. Air Force. WGS-4, WGS-5 and WGS-6 are planned for launch between 2011 and 2013.