In June 2003 SES ASTRA (SES) ordered two new Astra satellites with satellite manufacturer Lockheed Martin. The satellites, designated Astra 1KR and Astra 1L would provide distribution of direct-to-home (DTH) broadcast services across Europe following their scheduled launches in the second half of 2005 and 2006 respectively.

The Astra 1L communications satellite features a Ku/Ka- band payload with 31 active transponders and will be located at 19.2° East longitude.

Both spacecraft will be based on the award winning A2100AXS platform, manufactured by Lockheed Martin Commercial Space Systems, USA, and each will have a minimum service life of 15 years.

Astra 1L was launched on May 4^th, 2007, in a dual launch with Galaxy 17 satellite for Intelsat, on an Ariane 5 rocket operated by launch operator Arianespace from the Kourou Space Port in French Guiana.