Hughes Network Systems, a subsidiary of EchoStar, has announced a significant achievement as its Jupiter 3 ultra-high-density satellite completes the deployment of solar arrays and antennas. Following successful readiness testing by manufacturer Maxar Space Systems, Hughes is progressing to satellite communications testing with ground equipment, marking the final phase before launching broadband services. The Jupiter 3 satellite is set to deliver over 500 Gbps of additional broadband capacity across North and South America.
Hamid Akhavan, CEO of EchoStar, said: “Reaching this milestone demonstrates the engineering excellence and innovation our team infused into this satellite. As the largest commercial satellite ever built, Jupiter 3 will double the capacity of our fleet serving more customers who live beyond the reach of cable and fiber internet by providing ubiquitous connectivity throughout the Americas. This achievement is a testament to the strength of our Jupiter System technology, the de facto standard for satellite connectivity.”
Beyond serving individual consumers, Jupiter 3 aligns with Hughes’ commitment to bridging the digital divide, providing internet access to rural communities across the Americas. The satellite’s capabilities will extend to applications such as in-flight Wi-Fi for airline passengers, enterprise networking, and cellular backhaul for mobile network operators (MNOs).
Positioned at 22,236 miles (35,786 kilometres) above the equator at 95 degrees west, the Jupiter 3 satellite is poised to significantly impact connectivity in the region. The completion of solar array and antenna deployment, coupled with successful testing, signals a crucial step toward meeting the growing demand for high-speed broadband services in North and South America.
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