Earlier today, a global satellite services provider and developer of hybrid video delivery technologies, EchoStar Corporation, announced that the EchoStar XVI satellite, built by Space Systems/Loral (SS/L), was successfully launched and placed into geostationary transfer orbit by International Launch Services (News - Alert) (ILS).

In Kazakhstan, from Baikonur Cosmodrome, the ILS Proton Breeze M rocket lifted off on November 21 at 12:31 a.m. local time (Nov 20 at 1:31 p.m. EST). After the planned nine-hour-and-12-minute mission, EchoStar XVI was successfully released into geosynchronous transfer orbit. Successfully performing post-launch maneuvers, the satellite will ultimately be maneuvered into orbit 22,300 miles above the earth at 61.5 degrees west longitude.

EchoStar XVI, an all Ku-band satellite with continental United States (CONUS) and spot beam transponders, will be fully leased to DISH Network for the delivery of direct-to-home (DTH) broadcast services to DISH customers in the United States.

EchoStar XVI utilizes SS/L's flight-proven 1300 spacecraft bus, a 20-kilowatt satellite that weighs more than 14,700 lbs. fully fueled.

"Today's launch of EchoStar XVI was a great success and we extend many thanks to our partners at Space Systems Loral (News - Alert), ILS and the very capable ground team in Baikonur for another job well done," said Mike Dugan, president and CEO at EchoStar. 

Image via Shutterstock

He added that to growing its satellite fleet, EchoStar remains committed and it looks forward to additional successful launch announcements in the future.

EchoStar Corporation is the global provider of satellite operations and video delivery solutions, and is headquartered in Englewood, CO with additional business units worldwide. Delivering network technologies and managed services for enterprise and government customers in more than 100 countries, Hughes (News - Alert), EchoStar’s wholly-owned subsidiary, is the world's renowned provider of satellite broadband services. 

Having pioneered advancements in the set-top box and satellite industries for over 30 years, EchoStar is a multiple Emmy award-winning company that consistently delivers value for customers, partners and investors through innovation and outstanding quality.

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