[SatNews] ...services include managing satellite construction, launch vehicle procurement and integration, in-orbit testing, and delivery.
Space Systems/Loral (SS/L) (NASDAQ: LORL), provider of high-power commercial satellites, today announced that it was selected to provide a direct broadcast satellite (DBS) to an affiliate of DISH Network (NASDAQ: 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 designed EchoStar XVIII based on the SS/L 1300 satellite bus
Space Systems/Loral designed EchoStar XVIII based on the SS/L 1300 satellite bus, which is the industry's highest power platform for advanced television services such as high definition television. The satellite will be used by DISH Network to augment its existing fleet and to assure the highest level of ongoing service.
"Space Systems/Loral and EchoStar share a commitment to providing the highest quality service for our customers," said John Celli, president of Space Systems/Loral. "Our companies have worked together closely for many years to help advance the capabilities of satellite television and we are very pleased to have the opportunity to continue this process for our customer, DISH Network."