Anna Forrester
Aerojet Rocketdyne has provided the rocket engines that Intelsat‘s Boeing-built 33e communications satellite currently uses to perform in-flight maneuvers as the satellite begins operations.
The rocket and missile propulsion manufacturer said Friday the satellite, which is part of the Intelsat Epic Next Generation series, is equipped with its 100-volt electric propulsion thrusters and the MR-111C and MR-106L monopropellant hydrazine engines.
Aerojet Rocketdyne CEO and President Eileen Drake noted the components will work to facilitate high throughput for Intelsat 33e and other EpicNG satellites.
The company said its electric propulsion subsystem includes its MR-510 electric arcjet thrusters and is designed to support fuel efficiency in efforts to reduce the propellant mass onboard the satellite.
Intelsat 33e launched Aug. 24 and has entered operational capability to provide satellite services to Asia, Europe, Africa and the Middle East.
The satellite is the first of the EpicNG group to feature Aerojet Rocketdyne’s 100-volt electric propulsion subsystem.
