Global satellite operator Eutelsat has selected Space Systems Loral (SSL) to provide a high power all-electric satellite, called Eutelsat 7C.
To be positioned at a longitude of 7° east, the new satellite will mainly provide broadcast services to various regions, including Africa, the Middle East and Turkey.
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The all Ku-band satellite will also be equipped with 44 operational transponders and a steerable beam for providing flexible coverage.
SSL president John Celli said: "Following the successful launch of Eutelsat 65 West A earlier this month, we look forward to continued collaboration with the Eutelsat team.
"The Eutelsat 7C spacecraft has advanced capabilities that demonstrate the flexibility and power of the SSL satellite platform."
The newly launched Eutelsat 65 West A is equipped with ten C-band and 24 Ku-band transponders for providing video and data services and 24 Ka-band spot beams for delivering broadband connectivity in Brazil and across Latin America.
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By GlobalDataTo be built on the SSL 1300 platform, Eutelsat 7C will exclusively use electric propulsion for orbit raising and station keeping.
The satellite will have a lifespan of at least 15 years.
Eutelsat chief executive officer Rodolphe Belmer said: "Eutelsat 7C will help us meet ongoing demand for broadcast content delivery in a fast-growing communications environment.
"SSL has proven a valued and customer-driven manufacturing partner and we are very pleased to continue working together on advanced satellite technologies."
All-electric satellites are said to provide efficient solutions for satellite operators by decreasing launch mass while delivering good payload performance.
Since 2004, 19 SSL-built satellites with electric propulsion have been launched.
Image: Artist’s rendering of Eutelsat 7C satellite. Photo: courtesy of SSL.
