Space Systems/Loral (SSL), a leading provider of commercial satellites, today announced that the DIRECTV 14 satellite, designed and built for DIRECTV, has arrived at the European Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana, where it will be launched aboard an Ariane 5 launch vehicle by Arianespace.
“I would like to thank DIRECTV for giving us the opportunity to build this powerful and complex satellite that will enhance entertainment and video services in North America,” said John Celli, president of SSL. “We are pleased that the satellite has arrived safely at the launch base and look forward to the launch later this year.”
DIRECTV 14 is a 20-kilowatt class Ka-band and reverse-band digital broadcast satellite that will be used to provide Ultra HD and other new consumer services. It was designed with a very advanced beam forming network to provide service across the U.S. including Alaska and Hawaii and Puerto Rico.
“DIRECTV 14 shows our commitment to the latest in satellite technology, including the development of a full broadcast payload for Reverse Band DBS spectrum and the leading edge delivery of 4K UltraHD video services,” said Phil Goswitz, senior vice president, Space & Communications, DIRECTV. “SSL is a strong and reliable partner and continues to play a key role in DIRECTV’s ability to deliver the best entertainment experience for its customers.”
DIRECTV 14 is based on the highly reliable SSL 1300 platform, which provides high-power and the flexibility to support a broad range of applications and technology advances. The satellite will be positioned at 99 degrees West longitude when launched and is designed to provide service for 15 years or more.
About DIRECTV
DIRECTV (DTV) is one of the world’s leading providers of digital television entertainment services delivering a premium video experience through state-of-the-art technology, unmatched programming and industry leading customer service to more than 38 million customers in the U.S. and Latin America. In the U.S., DIRECTV offers its 20 million customers access to more than 195 HD channels and Dolby-Digital(R) 5.1 theater-quality sound, access to exclusive sports programming such as NFL SUNDAY TICKET(TM), Emmy-award winning technology and higher customer satisfaction than the leading cable companies for 14 years running. DIRECTV Latin America, through its subsidiaries and affiliated companies in Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Venezuela, Colombia, and other Latin American countries, leads the pay TV category in technology, programming and service, delivering an unrivaled digital television experience to more than 18 million customers. DIRECTV sports and entertainment properties include two Regional Sports Networks (Rocky Mountain and Pittsburgh), and minority ownership interests in Root Sports Northwest and Game Show Network. For the most up-to-date information on DIRECTV, please visit www.directv.com.
About SSL
SSL has a long history of delivering reliable satellites and spacecraft systems for commercial and government customers around the world. As a leading provider of commercial satellites, the company works closely with satellite operators to provide spacecraft for a broad range of services including television and radio distribution, digital audio radio, broadband Internet, mobile communications, and Earth observation. Billions of people around the world depend on SSL satellites every day. For more information, visit www.sslmda.com.
