The EchoStar X telecommunications satellite blasted into space Feb. 16 aboard a Sea Launch Zenit- 3SL launch vehicle from the equator.
EchoStar X will operate from 110 degrees west and is designed for a minimum service life of 15 years. EchoStar X features a Ku-band direct broadcast (DBS) payload optimized to provide additional bandwidth for more satellite TV services for DISH Network customers. The new satellite will be used in conjunction with other EchoStar satellites.
