EchoStar XV is a new direct broadcast satellite (DBS) which is being built for EchoStar Orbital Corporation II, a subsidiary of EchoStar Communications Corporation. Based on SS/L's 1300 platform, EchoStar XV will provide expanded services and flexibility for DISH Network's more than 13 million direct-to-home (DTH) television subscribers. Image courtesy of SS/L.
From its location at 61.5 degrees West, EchoStar XV will provide Ku-band services over the eastern continental United States. Customers have access to hundreds of video and audio channels, the most HD channels, the most international channels, state-of-the-art interactive TV applications, and HD and DVR technology, including 1080p Video on Demand. The satellite will pack 32 Ku-band transponders and has an anticipated service life of 15 years.
The satellite will be launched into orbit via a Proton M/Breeze M, which will life the 1,554,000 lb spacecraft heavenwards from Launch Pad 39. The satellite was built by Space Systems/Loral on that company's 1300 bus. The first three stages of the Proton will use a standard ascent profile to place the orbital unit (Breeze M upper stage and the EchoStar XV satellite) into a sub-orbital trajectory. From this point in the mission, the Breeze M will perform planned mission maneuvers to advance the orbital unit first to a circular parking orbit, then to an intermediate orbit, followed by a transfer orbit, and finally to a geosynchronous transfer orbit. Separation of the EchoStar XV satellite is scheduled to occur approximately 9 hours, 13 minutes after liftoff. Follow the action at the live webcast, which will start approximately 30 minutes prior to liftoff. Or, watch the launch live on DISH Network's channel 101.