Categories: Current AffairsScience and Technology

World’s largest private communications satellite ‘Jupiter 3’ launched

SpaceX, Elon Musk’s space exploration company, launched the world’s largest commercial communications satellite from LC-39A, Kennedy Space Center, Florida, USA. The Falcon Heavy rocket was used for the launch, carrying Maxar Technologies’ biggest satellite to date, named Jupiter 3.

Hughes’ JUPITER 3 satellite

JUPITER 3, also referred to as ‘EcoStar XXIV’, is a satellite of Hughes, an EchoStar company. As the next-generation Ultra High Density Satellite (UHDS), it is designed to provide gigabytes of connectivity to customers across North and South America.

EchoStar Corporation, an American company, serves as a global provider of satellite communication and Internet services through its business segments, namely Hughes Network Systems and EchoStar Satellite Services.

JUPITER-3: Maxar Technologies’ Satellite with Impressive Size and Advanced Technology

Maxar Technologies has developed JUPITER-3, a satellite that stands out not only for its remarkable size but also for its state-of-the-art technology and capabilities.
Once fully deployed, its dimensions will be comparable to a commercial airliner’s wingspan, spanning between 130-160 feet (40-50 meters).
The satellite’s innovative design has enabled the miniaturization of electronics, incorporating solid-state amplifiers and improved antenna efficiency.

JUPITER-3: Doubling Maxar’s Satellite Fleet Capacity for Enhanced Connectivity

JUPITER-3 is anticipated to double Maxar’s satellite fleet capacity, offering an extra 500 Gbps of connectivity.
This significant increase will allow the company to cater to a broader customer base, particularly in regions where conventional cable and fiber connections are scarce or unreliable.
The satellite’s versatile capabilities encompass in-flight Wi-Fi, maritime connections, enterprise networks, backhaul for Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), and Community Wi-Fi solutions, serving the needs of users across North and South America.

About Maxar Technologies

Maxar Technologies Inc. is a space technology company based in Westminster, Colorado, United States, with a specialization in the production of communication, Earth observation, radar, and on-orbit servicing satellites, satellite products, and associated services.

Established on October 5, 2017, Maxar Technologies serves as the parent holding company for Space Systems Loral, an aerospace company which is headquartered in Palo Alto, California, US.

About Hughes Network Systems

Hughes Network Systems, a wholly owned subsidiary of EchoStar, offers a wide range of broadband equipment and services, including managed services with smart, software-defined networking. The flagship internet service connects millions of people throughout the Americas and enables internet access for millions of users worldwide. Additionally, Hughes is a major supplier, accounting for over half of the global satellite terminal market, catering to leading satellite operators, in-flight service providers, mobile network operators, and military clientele.