Space Systems Loral (SSL) has stated that the multi-mission Amazonas 5 satellite, designed and built by the company for HISPASAT, has arrived at the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan — the satellite will be launched aboard a Proton Breeze M vehicle provided by International Launch Services (ILS) and will be used for video content delivery and Internet connectivity in Latin America (LATAM).

Amazonas 5 possesses 34 Ka-band spot beams and 24 Ku-band transponders to be used for broadband Internet services, television, corporate networks, and other telecommunications applications in Brazil and Latin America. Based on the SSL 1300 platform, the satellite will be located at 61 degrees West and is designed to provide service for 15 years or more. With this new satellite, the HISPASAT Group will help bridge the digital divide in Latin America and will grow its video neighborhood in the region.

Artistic rendition of the Amazonas-5 satellite.

Amazonas 5 is the third satellite that SSL has provided to Hispasat — this prolific company is also building the Hispasat 30W-6, which is expected to launch later this year. SSL built Amazonas 3, Latin America’s first satellite with a high throughput payload for broadband internet, and Hispasat 30W-5, which was launched in 2010.

According to Paul Estey, EVP and and COO at SSL, HISPASAT and SSL have a collaborative relationship and have worked together since 2007 to develop advanced spacecraft capability. With Amazonas 5, SSL is pleased to assist Hispasat broaden their high quality offerings in LATAM.

Carlos Espinós, CEO at HISPASAT, added that SSL has been a highly reliable manufacturing partner,and is providing the company with a highly advanced satellite that will help the firm's business grow in LATAM.