Hylas-1 satellite, image courtesy of ESA
It’s all systems go for Hylas-1, the first satellite created specifically to deliver broadband access to European consumers. Since its launch in November, Hylas has performed well throughout its testing in orbit and is now ready for commercial service. An extensive series of tests has checked the performance of its communications payloads. Conducted from ESA’s new testing facilities in Redu, Belgium, the tests have confirmed that the payload, including the antennas, is in good health, operating correctly and shows no ill effects from space. “The test plan included a very wide range of different checks,” explained Andrew Murrell, ESA’s Hylas-1 Payload Manager. “We also demonstrated the payload’s unique ‘highly flexible’ capabilities.”
The innovative ‘highly adaptable’ payload was developed by Astrium (UK), with the assistance of ESA’s Advanced Research in Telecommunication Systems (ARTES) program. ESA has devoted years to developing satellite broadband technologies through ARTES, and now several of these innovations are being put to work on Hylas-1. “We've helped to develop and demonstrate in-orbit an entirely new architecture of communications payload, using a range of 'first-flight' technologies,” said Andrew. “Of the 66 active units forming the payload, 48 were developed under this project.“
Providing European broadband coverage as well as TV distribution and other services, Hylas-1 is the first European satellite specifically designed to provide interactive broadband services, as ESA’s first public–private partnership in a full satellite system. The bulk of the mission is financed by commercial operator Avanti Communications.