PARIS — Rocket and satellite builder Orbital Sciences Corp. is predicting a sharp drop in the number of commercial telecommunications satellites to be ordered worldwide in 2010 following an exceptionally strong 2009, and said it expects to win three or four of those contracts.

To continue reading this article:

Register now to read
3 free articles this month.

You’ll also receive our weekly Editor’s Choice, SpaceNews This Week and Opinions newsletters. Opt-out at any time.

Sign in to an existing account

Get unlimited access to SpaceNews.com, the SpaceNews app and our digital monthly magazine for less than $5 per week.

$280

On a campus or library network? Check for access.

Cancel anytime. Sales tax may apply. No refunds. Terms and conditions apply.

See all subscription options

Peter B. de Selding was the Paris bureau chief for SpaceNews.