ECHOSTAR 17

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ECHOSTAR 17 is classified as:

Geostationary

NORAD ID: 38551

Int'l Code: 2012-035A

Launch date: July 5, 2012
Source: United States (US)
Launch site: FRENCH GUIANA (FRGUI)

ECHOSTAR 17, built by Space Systems/Loral, will expand high-speed broadband Internet capacity over North America for the HughesNet service operated by Hughes Network Systems, a subsidiary of EchoStar Corp. The satellite deployed its two solar array wings after separating from the Ariane 5 rocket, according to a statement released by Space Systems/Loral. EchoStar 17 did not succumb to a glitch which caused permanent damage on the similar Intelsat 19 satellite, but engineers investigating the problem are focusing on an anamoly observed during its launch on a Sea Launch Zenit 3SL booster. Previously named Jupiter 1, the EchoStar 17 satellite has capacity for more than 100 gigabits per second to enhance HughesNet service over the United States and Canada. EchoStar 17 will provide high-speed Internet access to nearly 2 million additional customers. EchoStar 17 launched with a mass of about 13,448 pounds (6,100 kg), and it features 60 Ka-band communications beams. The craft will be stationed in geosynchronous orbit at 107 degrees west longitude.