Space Systems Loral (SSL), a leading provider of innovative satellites and spacecraft systems, today announced that the EchoStar XXI satellite, designed and built for EchoStar Corporation (NASDAQ: SATS), was launched yesterday and is successfully performing post-launch maneuvers according to plan. The satellite deployed its solar arrays on schedule following its launch aboard a Proton Breeze M vehicle provided by International Launch Services (ILS). The satellite, which will be used by EchoStar’s subsidiary, EchoStar Mobile Limited, for mobile voice and data communications services in Europe, will begin thruster firings tomorrow to navigate to its final geosynchronous orbital slot. SSL is a subsidiary of MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates Ltd. (TSX:MDA), a global communications and information company.
“I would like to thank EchoStar, ILS and the SSL engineers and technicians whose patience, commitment, and teamwork helped make the EchoStar XXI launch a success,” said John Celli, president of SSL. “EchoStar and SSL have worked together for many years and both of our companies share a focus on providing reliable and innovative solutions to our customers. We are very pleased that EchoStar XXI is launched and performing as planned.”
EchoStar XXI is an S-band satellite for next generation Mobile Satellite Services (MSS) that will be located at 10.25° East. It features a large unfurlable reflector that will deploy after the satellite is on station. Based on the SSL 1300 platform, the satellite is designed to provide service for 15 years or more.
EchoStar Mobile will utilize a portion of EchoStar XXI’s capacity to provide mobile satellite services (MSS) capacity throughout the European Union. EchoStar Mobile is an EU-wide licensee for an integrated mobile satellite service network with a complementary ground component.
“EchoStar XXI will provide commercial wholesalers with a new, advanced network for reliable, IP-based MSS voice and data services in Europe,” said Anders Johnson, executive director of EchoStar Mobile and president of EchoStar Satellite Services L.L.C. “SSL has been a trusted and innovative partner in the expansion of our highly advanced satellite fleet.”
SSL has built more than a dozen satellites for EchoStar and its affiliates, including the world’s highest capacity broadband satellite, EchoStar XIX, which was successfully launched in 2016. SSL-built EchoStar XXIII was successfully launched in March 2017 and is providing service according to plan.
About EchoStar
EchoStar Corporation (NASDAQ: SATS) is a premier global provider of satellite communication solutions. Headquartered in Englewood, Colo., and conducting business around the globe, EchoStar is a pioneer in secure communications technologies through its Hughes Network Systems and EchoStar Satellite Services business segments. For more information, visit echostar.com. Follow @EchoStar on Twitter.
About EchoStar Mobile Limited
EchoStar Mobile Limited, a subsidiary of EchoStar Corp., is a mobile operator providing connectivity across Europe. Headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, EchoStar Mobile provides access to a hybrid satellite and terrestrial network enabling enhanced mobile voice and data communications for businesses, government agencies and consumers. For more information, visit echostarmobile.com.
About SSL
Space Systems Loral (SSL) is a leading provider of commercial satellites with broad expertise to support satellite operators and innovative space related missions. The company designs and manufactures spacecraft for services such as direct-to-home television, video content distribution, broadband internet, mobile communications, and Earth observation. As a Silicon Valley innovator for 60 years, SSL’s advanced product line also includes state-of-the-art small satellites, and sophisticated robotics and automation solutions for remote operations. For more information, visit www.sslmda.com.
About SSL MDA Holdings
SSL is a subsidiary of SSL MDA Holdings, Inc., which is based in San Francisco, CA. SSL MDA Holdings is a wholly owned subsidiary of MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates Ltd. (MDA) and serves as the operating company for all MDA business.
About MDA
MDA is a global communications and information company providing operational solutions to commercial and government organizations worldwide.
MDA’s business is focused on markets and customers with strong repeat business potential, primarily in the Communications sector and the Surveillance and Intelligence sector. In addition, the Company conducts a significant amount of advanced technology development.
MDA’s established global customer base is served by more than 4,800 employees operating from 15 locations in the United States, Canada, and internationally.
The Company’s common shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol “MDA.”
Related Websites
www.mdacorporation.com
