An Ariane 5 rocket is set to propel two communications satellites into space, one for Japanese telecom operator SKY Perfect JSAT Corporation and second for Australian operator Optus.

Weighing some 4,000 kilos, the JSAT satellite will provide communication services for Japan, the Asia-Pacific region, Oceania and Hawaii. It was built by US company Lockheed Martin, and is designed to last 15 years.The 2,500-kilo Optus will be the fifth satellite hoisted into orbit for the Australian operator will provide direct TV and broadcasting services for Australia and New Zealand.

Made by Orbital Science Corporation in Dulles, Virginia, it too is made to function for a decade-and-a-half.

Both satellites will be in geostationary orbit, meaning they will move in synch with earth's rotation at the latitude as the equator, hovering constantly over the same spot.

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