Space Systems/Loral Builds World's Largest Communications Satellite

Space Systems/Loral (SS/L) has completed static load testing of iPSTAR-1, the world's largest commercial communications satellite with a launch weight of 14,900 pounds (6775 kilograms). Thailand's Shin Satellite company will use the spacecraft to provide broadband Internet services throughout a large portion of Asia, Australia and New Zealand. Space Systems/Loral said iPSTAR-1 will provide eighty-four spot beams and a total throughput capability of approximately 40 Gbps. The satellite will support individual user data rates of up to 8 Mbps forward link and 4 Mbps return link to as many as eight million users. Launch is planned for early 2004 into an orbital slot at 120 degrees East longitude.
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