SpaceX set to send satellite for Turkmenistan into orbit

Government leaders from Turkmenistan are making their way to Central Florida. They'll witness the launch of the nation's first communications satellite Monday night from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. But it comes as the nation faces harsh criticism back home for blocking independent sources of news and information. SpaceX is preparing its Falcon 9 rocket to take the satellite more than 22,000 miles above Earth. Thales Alenia Space, a French-Italian manufacturer, built the satellite for Turkmenistan. Once in orbit, the satellite will provide enhanced, secure telecommunications for the country. Turkmenistan is located in Central Asia, bordered by Iran, Afghanistan, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. More

(Source: Bay News 9 - Apr 27)