ASTRA 2D, the first spin-stabilized satellite built by Boeing Satellite Systems for Société Européenne des Satellites (SES) of Luxembourg, will be launched in December 2000 aboard an Ariane 5 rocket from Kourou, French Guiana. The Boeing 376 HP satellite is one of two ordered by the operator of Europe's leading ASTRA direct-to-home satellite system to help meet demand for digital satellite services at the 28.2 degrees East orbital slot. ASTRA 2D is equipped with 16 active Ku-band transponders and gallium arsenide solar cells designed to generate 1400W of power at end of life.