International Launch Services (ILS) signed a contract to launch the Ciel-2 satellite on a Proton Breeze-M vehicle in late 2008, the company announced Feb. 15.

Ciel-2, built by Alcatel Alenia Space, will be the inaugural launch for Canada’s Ciel Satellite Group. The Ku-band spacecraft will be located at 129° West and provide a variety of communications services throughout Canada and North America.

SES Americom Inc., a minority partner in Ciel, was the contracting agent for the launch. Financial details
were not disclosed.