EchoStar-16

Image: Space Systems Loral
Image: Space Systems Loral

EchoStar-16 is a Direct Broadcast Service (DBS) commercial communication satellite manufactured by Space Systems Loral of Palo Alto, California and operated by the EchoStar Corporation. The Satellite is based on the flight proven LS-1300 Satellite Bus that is capable of hosting powerful communication payloads. It is equipped with 32 Ku-Band Transponders that will provide coverage of the United States of America. The vehicle features two deployable solar arrays and onboard batteries for power generation and storage.

EchoStar-16 features its own propulsion system for apogee maneuvers and stationkeeping in GSO. The bus is three-axis stabilized and the satellite has an expected service life of 15 years. EchoStar-16 has a liftoff mass of 6,650 Kilograms that include about 3,400kg of propellants. The vehicle will operate from an orbital position of 61.5 degrees west longitude in Geostationary Orbit. The spacecraft will be permanently leased to the DISH Network as part of its Direct-To-Home DTH services in the US.

In addition to its Communications Payload, EchoStar-16 carries an art project entitled “The last Pictures”. Trevor Paglen has created an ultra-archival disc, micro-etched with one hundred photographs and encased in a gold-plated shell. The Payload rides on the Anti-Earth Deck of EchoStar-16. For more about the project, visit its Creative Time Website.