NSS-8 was to be a high-powered, state-of-the-art, Ku- and C-band satellite located at 57º East over the Indian Ocean.  It was to provide coverage of Europe, Africa, the Middle East, the Indian sub-continent and Asia, with the intention to replace NSS-703 and bring expanded power and coverage at this optimum and well-established orbital location.

On January 30th, 2007, NSS-8 regrettably failed to launch onboard a Zenit-3SL launch vehicle, resulting in the total loss of the satellite. The launch failure of NSS-8 means that NSS-703 will now stay at 57º East in order to continue to serve existing customers until at least 2009. 

SES NEW SKIES has already begun construction of NSS-9, which is scheduled to be launched in early 2009 to the Pacific Ocean Region, freeing up NSS-5 which will be relocated to 57º East to replace NSS-703.