DirecTV 1R

To expand channel capacity and strengthen in-orbit redundancy, DirecTV, Inc., ordered a new satellite from Hughes Space and Communications Company (HSC) in 1998. The new spacecraft, called DirecTV 1-R, is a Hughes HS-601HP model satellite scheduled that was launched in October 1999 under a delivery-in-orbit contract. It is positioned at 101 degrees West longitude among DirecTV's three existing spacecraft, which are "classic" Hughes HS-601 models built by HSC. Collectively those three satellites have the capacity to deliver more than 200 channels of entertainment programming to subscribers that are equipped with DSS™ digital home receiving units, which feature an 18-inch dish.