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DirecTV 11 satellite launch deemed a success


Unlike the AMC-14 launch that went awry just days ago, the DirecTV 11 launch went off sans a hitch. According to a new release on Sea Launch's website, D11 was "successfully delivered into orbit" after lifting off right on schedule, and all systems were said to have "performed nominally throughout the flight." Currently, the crew is awaiting acquisition of the spacecraft's first signals from outer space, which should occur within the next few hours. So far, so good -- the countdown to more HD for more DTV subscribers starts now.