BOULDER, Colo. — June 30, 2008 — Vexcel Corp., a Microsoft company, today announced the release of version 7 of its Apex Commander remote-sensing data management system for satellite ground stations. Apex Commander offers fully automated operation and control of a Vexcel Apex ground system within an easy-to-use graphical user interface (GUI).

“This is an exciting release of Apex Commander for our worldwide customers,” said Rodger Cree, director of the remote-sensing data management systems division at Vexcel. “We have integrated powerful new capabilities based on advanced Microsoft technologies and other partners while incorporating changes and enhancements suggested by our customers.”

Major new features in version 7 include the following:

·         Internet-accessible GUI based on the Microsoft .NET Framework

·         Imagery acquisition planning and catalog browsing using Microsoft’s Virtual Earth 3D visualization platform

·         Automated scheduling and control of multiple antennas using the Microsoft Silverlight interface

·         Expanded image catalog capabilities built on the Microsoft SQL Server Enterprise relational database management system

·         Robust satellite pass prediction and swath planning using Analytical Graphics Inc.’s integrated Satellite Tool Kit (STK)

·         Enhanced archive capabilities built on the Symantec Backup Exec platform

·         Use of clustered services for a high-availability, resilient system

·         Integration and control of SeaSpace Corp.’s AXYOM antenna and control unit

·         Integration and use of SeaSpace’s TeraScan MODIS processing system for fast and efficient creation of MODIS image products from NASA’s Aqua and Terra satellites

Apex Commander version 7, available today, is currently in use at Vexcel ground stations in Latin America, Asia and North America.

About Vexcel

Founded in 1985, Vexcel Corp. is a remote sensing company with headquarters in Boulder, Colo. The company’s legacy offerings to government and commercial markets include turnkey satellite ground systems, a range of remote sensing imagery processing products, and advanced radar processing and geospatial services. The company was acquired by Microsoft Corp. on May 3, 2006. More information is available at http://www.vexcel.com.

About Microsoft

Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT”) is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.