Thermal regulation system of Russia's Express-AM5 communications satellite breaks down

MOSCOW. June 5 (Interfax) - Specialists have limited the operation of Russia's Express-AM5 communications satellite due to a breakdown of its thermal regulation system, Space Communications, a state-run satellite communications operator, said.

"The liquid cooling circuit of the Express-AM5 satellite (positioned at 140 east longitude) failed at 4:30 a.m. on June 3, 2023, and the temperature limits for the satellite's operation were exceeded," it said.

To avoid overheating and maintain the satellite's serviceability, the company, working together with Reshetnev specialists, planned and implemented a number of measures.

"Some transponders were shut down in accordance with operational guidelines and recommendations from the Reshetnev chief designer. The satellite remained operational, but with limited access to its payload," Space Communications said.

"Most users continue to receive Express-AM5 services," it said.

"The rest of our clients were offered the use of Express-AMU7 (at 145 east longitude) and Express-AMU3 (103 east longitude). Some of them have accomplished the transition. Work with the remaining users continues," it said.

Express-AM5 is the first satellite based on the Express-2000 large-sized unified platform designed by Reshetnev specialists. The satellite, which has 84 Ka, C, Ku and L transponders, was put into orbit on December 26, 2013.