(3 October 2005 9:00 pm)

MUMBAI: Satellite operator Eutelsat has secured ISO 9001: 2000 certification for its satellite control activities, encompassing satellite on-Station control and operation, launch and early orbit phase operations and ground control systems.

These services are used for Eutelsat’s own fleet management purposes and are available to national or regional satellite companies who outsource positioning and control operations.

This certification was awarded by BVQI, an independent ISO 9001: 2000 certification body accredited by more than 30 national and international organisations. The certification constitutes the recognition of the maturity and efficiency of Eutelsat’s quality management system in satellite operations. Eutelsat states that its satellite control processes are structured to achieve maximum operational safety and in-orbit availability of the company’s satellites for commercial services, with the aim of fully satisfying customer operational needs.

Eutelsat’s technical director Barry Saunders said, “ISO 9001: 2000 certification is a proof of our commitment to maintaining best practice in satellite control and operations which are a core activity for our group. It gives us an exacting framework that continually challenges and improves our performance, thereby strengthening the ability of our operational teams to deliver the quality of service that meets the most stringent requirements of our customers”.