In a groundbreaking development, Hughes Network Systems, a subsidiary of EchoStar, has successfully launched its JUPITER3 ultra high-density satellite into space. The satellite, also known as EchoStar XXIV, was built by Maxar Technologies and is designed to provide gigabytes of connectivity to customers in North and South America.
The launch took place on July 29 at the Kennedy Space Center Launch Pad 39A in Florida, with the JUPITER 3 deploying from the SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket. After three hours and twenty-eight minutes, the satellite began sending and receiving signals, and its solar arrays unfolded to their full size.
EchoStar CEO, Hamid Akhavan, expressed his pride in the launch, stating that JUPITER 3 is the highest capacity and highest performing satellite they have ever launched. He emphasized the importance of satellite internet in connecting customers in rural regions where cable and fiber are not available.
Over the next few weeks, JUPITER 3 will travel to its destination at the 95 degrees west orbital slot, where it will undergo extensive testing before entering service. Once operational, it will provide over 500 Gbps of additional capacity to augment the Hughes JUPITER fleet.
Akhavan highlighted the impact that JUPITER 3 will have on customers, from expanding educational opportunities for students to enabling telehealth appointments for seniors. The satellite will also enhance HughesNet offerings in the U.S. and Latin America, providing higher broadband capacity and faster speed plans.
Furthermore, JUPITER 3’s dense, high-throughput capacity will support various applications such as in-flight Wi-Fi, enterprise networking, and cellular backhaul for mobile network operators.
Overall, the successful launch of JUPITER 3 marks a new era of connectivity and demonstrates Hughes Network Systems’ commitment to meeting the needs of their customers across the Americas.
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