TerreStar Networks says its TerreStar-1 satellite—which arrived at its Kourou, French Guiana launch site this week—will be the largest commercial satellite ever launched. An Ariane 5 heavy lift vehicle is scheduled to launch the satellite June 24.
Jeffrey Epstein, President of TerreStar Networks, said, "The arrival of TerreStar-1 signals the start of final launch preparations. Once launched, TerreStar-1 will allow us to deliver on the vision of an integrated satellite and terrestrial mobile service that enables next generation applications anytime, anywhere."
Dennis Matheson, TerreStar Networks Chief Technology Officer, commented, "The design, manufacture and delivery of TerreStar-1 has been a team effort. We have relied on our colleagues at Space Systems/Loral for their experience and support in delivering the integrated satellite and ground system that makes our new services possible. We now look forward to a flawless launch by our partner Arianespace."
John Celli, President and COO at Space Systems/Loral noted the satellite has an 18-meter reflector with an "extraordinarily powerful S-band feed array."
The TerreStar satellite is based on SS/L's 1300 platform and will be capable of operating over 500 spot beams covering the Continental U.S., Canada, Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. TerreStar-1 will provide service using 2 GHz spectrum, including spectrum reallocated from the broadcast auxiliary service.
