Space Systems/Loral Selected to Provide Direct Broadcast Satellite to DISH

[riffjim4069]

Excuse me if this has already been posted...

Source

Space Systems/Loral (LORL) announced that it was selected to provide a direct broadcast satellite or DBS to an affiliate of DISH Network (DISH). The satellite, EchoStar XVIII, is designed to provide exceptional sparing flexibility for the DISH Network fleet.

EchoStar Satellite Services L.L.C., a subsidiary of EchoStar Corporation, is providing space program management services to DISH Network for the EchoStar XVIII satellite. These services include managing satellite construction, launch vehicle procurement and integration, in-orbit testing, and delivery. After launch of the satellite, EchoStar will provide spacecraft telemetry, tracking, and control services through its multiple Spacecraft Operation Centers.

Space Systems/Loral said it designed EchoStar XVIII based on the SS/L 1300 satellite bus. The satellite will be used by DISH Network to augment its existing fleet and to assure the highest level of ongoing service.

 

[gpflepsen]

Cool, a bus in orbit!

 

[nelson61]

"Exceptional sparing" would be a spot beam sat that also covered Conus and Mexico.

They have spread themselves thin with their US, Mexico, and Brazil service with 3 sats approaching end of life (E1, E3, and E6).

They have announced many of their contracts on Dec 31. Makes one wonder if they have a need to speed things up.

 

[nelson61]

Normal construction schedule is 24-30 months - say early 2015