Hispasat orders two satellites
June 26, 2012
By Chris Forrester
Madrid-based Hispasat has ordered a pair of new DTH satellites from Orbital Sciences of Washington DC. The satellites both back-up existing broadcasting positions as well as add new high-power frequencies for new market development.
Amazonas 4A will carry 28 Ku-band transponders and is likely to be launched early in 2014 into Hispasat’s existing 61 degrees West slot, and target Hispasat’s growing Latin American business.
However, Amazonas 4B, will launch a year later and its precise configuration has yet to be determined despite a decision to use Orbital Science’s higher-power potential. For example, Orbital can supply a satellite with up to 7.5 kilowatts of power compared with their more usual 5 kilowatts.
Orbital has won the orders partly because of its ability to supply the satellites within 2 years.