The AMC-23 communications satellite has been successfully launched Thursday December 29th, from Baikonur in Kazakhstan.

This satellite will provide high-speed broadband services to commercial airline passengers throughout the Pacific region.
In addition, the 18 transponder C-band payloads will be available to broadcasters, cable programmers, Internet service providers, government agencies, educational institutions, carriers and private networks for next generation distribution solutions and connectivity to North America and Pacific Rim.

AMC-23 is the fourth Spacebus satellite* delivered to SES AMERICOM in seven years and the fourth Spacebus 4000** telecommunication satellite to be launched this year.

* AMC-5, AMC-9, AMC-12, AMC-23
** AMC-12, Apstar VI, Syracuse 3A, AMC-23