"Sea Launch Experiences Anomaly During NSS-8 Launch"

[MU Chi_IL]

Chico  - News stated "it was a direct tv satellite they were launching for HD" and that everyone is accounted for, you know if anyone was hurt?

Anomoly.  Here's your anomoly:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eMG2SBwIcrM

[NYWarrior]

crap!  I was counting on the new channels to help justify the new HD TV I want!

[ChicosBailBonds]

Chico  - News stated "it was a direct tv satellite they were launching for HD" and that everyone is accounted for, you know if anyone was hurt?

Anomoly.  Here's your anomoly:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eMG2SBwIcrM

We're all good, thanks for asking.

There's an old adage in war that you shouldn't believe the first three stories you hear about a battle or a tragedy, etc.

No exception.  I know the media is just trying to do their job, but they got it wrong (or their sources did).  It was not a DIRECTV satellite but rather a Dutch satellite (my sympathies to my fellow kinsmen).

There is some speculation that it could slow our launch for our second satellite launch later this year which will go off the Sea Launch platform, but that's all speculation.  Sea Launch is located here in Long Beach and I've had the priveledge to visit their operation.  Very cool.  Basically a floating launchpad.   Our D11 satellite is supposed to go up off Sea Launch later this year with D10 going off the ground (Khazakistan I believe).

So for right now, no issues.  Our satellites are fine and still having the finishing touches put on them by the manufacturer.  Sounds like everyone at Sea Launch was fine as well which is the biggest issue.  Safety is key.  Glad no one was hurt.  Some insurance company is about to write about a $700 million check.