Loral clinches direct-broadcast satellite deal

Loral Skynet has reached agreement to own and operate the C-band payload of the EchoStar IX direct-broadcast satellite, due for launch in 2002, as part of its Telstar fleet.

While EchoStar will use the Ku-band payload of the Space Systems/Loral-built satellite to broadcast television programming direct to homes, Skynet will use the 24-transponder C-band payload to increase services to cable television operators in the USA.

To be operated by Skynet as Telstar 13, the EchoStar IX satellite will be positioned at 121°W, complementing the company's Telstar 7 spacecraft now at 129°W. Skynet will also provide tracking, telemetry and control services.

Source: Flight International