The satellite launch market, in the doldrums in 1999, is showing signs of picking up this year, according to Jean-Marie Luton, head of Arianespace. Despite a fall in revenue of 11 per cent, Arianespace expects to report a profit of Fr93 million (Euro 14 million) for 1999. Sales dropped to Fr6.4 billion from Fr7.1 billion.

The upturn in the market is revealed by an increased number of calls for tenders for completely new satellite projects. "Many of the calls last year were to replace failed satellites or launches, but now we are beginning to see calls for completely new projects," said Luton. The latest contract is for the launch of Hispasat V. Three to four contracts are currently under negotiation.

Arianespace expects the launch frequency attained last year to be maintained or increased. It expects to launch between eight and ten Ariane 4 and 5 Ariane 5 this year. Arianespace successfully launched another Ariane 4, putting into orbit a PanAmSat Galaxy XR on January 25.