2311 GMT (6:11 p.m. EST)
SpaceX says the engine restart was a success. Spacecraft separation is due in a couple of minutes.
2320 GMT (6:20 p.m. EST)
SpaceX and SES are awaiting acquisition of signal from the SES 8 satellite before calling this launch a success. All appears OK, a source says.
In the money!
2322 GMT (6:22 p.m. EST)
SPACECRAFT SEPARATION! The 6,918-pound SES 8 television broadcasting satellite has been deployed in the correct orbit following tonight’s launch.
The satellite was supposed to be placed in an orbit with a high point above 80,000 kilometers, or 49,709 miles, a low point of 295 kilometers, or 183 miles, and an inclination of 20.75 degrees.
The second burn was supposed to boost SES 8 into a higher orbit and reduce its inclination, moving it closer to its ultimate operating position over the equator and reducing the fuel the satellite needs to complete its mission.
Based on information from SpaceX and sources, it appears the burn did what it was designed to do.
SES 8 is designed to adjust its orbit and settle into position 22,300 miles over the equator within about two weeks of launch. Five burns of the satellite’s on-board liquid-fueled engine are required to lower its apogee, raise its perigee, and change its inclination to move over the equator.
The first orbital maneuver by SES 8 is expected about 39 hours after launch.
We expect more details to be released by SpaceX and SES in the next few hours.