LOCKHEED MARTIN ATHENA LAUNCH OF IKONOS SATELLITE EXPERIENCED AN ANOMALY FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE PRESS CONTACTS: Mark Brender (703) 558-0309; mbrender@spaceimaging.com Linda Lidov (303) 254-2106; llidov@spaceimaging.com VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif., April 27, 1999 -- Space Imaging and Lockheed Martin Astronautics have not successfully acquired telemetry signals from the IKONOS 1 satellite following its launch this morning by a Lockheed Martin Athena II rocket. The Athena was launched at 11:22 a.m. PDT from Space Launch Complex 6 (SLC-6) at Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif. Weather conditions for the launch were good and the countdown was normal. "We are gravely disappointed that we have not established contact with the IKONOS satellite as of this time," said John Copple, Space Imaging's chief executive officer. "We are working through the anomaly with Lockheed Martin. Space Imaging had established contingency plans in case something like this happened," he said. "Although our business plan will be delayed, we are confident that with the launch of IKONOS 2 we will achieve our goals." Space Imaging and its prime contractor, Lockheed Martin Corporation, have begun an investigation into the anomaly and will determine as quickly as possible the appropriate corrective actions. IKONOS 2, an identical twin to IKONOS 1, has already been built as a backup in case of an anomaly such as this. No launch date has been set. Lockheed Martin Astronautics built the Athena II launch vehicle. Lockheed Martin Missiles & Space built the satellite for Denver-based Space Imaging. Reporters may hear a recording of the anomaly news conference for a 24-hour period beginning at 6:00 p.m. (PDT) by phoning 800-257-4607 and then entering this reservation number: 12232977. Space Imaging's Mark Brender (director of Washington operations) can be reached by leaving a voicemail message at 703-558-0309 or by pager at 888-808-1927. Linda Lidov (public relations manager) can be reached at 303-254-2106 or by pager at 877-832-2195. ###