As you may already have read, the EchoStar XI satellite was successfully launched today by Sea Launch. Space Systems/Loral (SS/L), a subsidiary of Loral Space & Communications [Nasdaq:LORL], and provider of commercial satellites, today announced that the EchoStar XI satellite, built for DISH Network, deployed its solar arrays early this morning, following its successful launch last night.
The 20-kW direct broadcast satellite (DBS) is performing post-launch maneuvers on schedule as it continues its progress toward its in-orbit testing location. Its final location in geosynchronous orbit will be 110 degrees West longitude. It is the fourth SS/L-built satellite to be launched this year and the fifth satellite that SS/L has provided to DISH Network.
With the successful launch of EchoStar XI, there are 55 SS/L-built geostationary satellites now in orbit.
