Arabsat launches BADR-8 satellite into orbit

Dubai [UAE], May 27 (ANI/WAM): Arabsat, one of the leading satellite service providers in the Arab world, launched Badr-8 from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida on Saturday, after four days of delay due to a thick cloud cover.

SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket lifted off with the Badr 8 communications satellite for Arabsat.
The nearly 10,000 pounds (4.5-metric ton) Badr 8 communications satellite will provide television broadcast services, video relay, and data services across the Middle East, North Africa, Europe, and Central Asia.

Arabsat says its investment in the Badr 8 program totals about USD300 million, including the spacecraft manufacturing contract with Airbus, the launch agreement with SpaceX, insurance, and ground infrastructure.