Loral Sees Promise With Mexican Satellite Business

Income from its operating stake in Satelites Mexicanos (Satmex) should be $280 million during 1998 and 1999, said Michael Targoff, president and director of operations for Loral Space & Communications.

Loral Space and Mexico's Telefonica Autrey offered about $688 million for a 75-percent stake in a 20-year concession of Mexico's satellite system on Friday. "As part of our business plan we are expecting income of about $120 million in 1998 and about $160 million in 1999," Targoff said at a news conference.

The group is considered the virtual winner for the tender. A final decision regarding the auction is expected later in the week.

Matra Marconi Joins Motorola's Celestri Project

Matra Marconi Space will partner with Motorola in the development of Celestri, Motorola's planned global broadband satellite communications network.

Matra Marconi Space will help design and manufacture the Celestri platform under a contract valued at more than $1 billion. Matra Marconi Space also said it intends to participate financially in the Celestri operating venture when it is formed.

Celestri will use low-earth-orbit satellites to provide multimedia and real-time interactive services such as desk-top videoconferencing. The system also will rely on GEO satellites for broadcast and multicast services for news and entertainment. A combination of LEO and GEO satellites will deliver a range of "hybrid" broadband services such as interactive television, software distribution and electronic books.

Programmers Preparing JSkyB Content

According to Japanese officials, 81 companies are preparing programming for Japan Sky Broadcasting, due for launch next April.

The Posts and Telecommunications Ministry said movies and music may account for most JSkyB offerings, based on the information the government body received from interested companies. Others submitting programming proposals cover news and information services and audio offerings.

The ministry added it is scheduled to consult its advisory body, the Radio Regulatory Council, next month regarding JSkyB's launch, licensing and programming proposals.

Interactive Shopping In France Via Satellite

TPS, the French digital satellite television service operated by TF1, will launch an interactive shopping service Nov. 12, its third venture into interactivity in less than a month.

The company said it has signed up toy-maker Lego for the service, called TPS Boutiques, and it expects half a dozen mail-order product manufacturers to secure a spot in its virtual shopping mall.

Earlier this month, TPS launched an interactive advertising site for the Renault Kangoo vehicle. TPS followed that with an interactive arts and theater service called L'Oeil du Hibou.