Launch Success
Liftoff Time (GMT)
05:20:59
Wednesday July 16, 2008
Space Systems/Loral (SS/L) announced in December 2004 that it has been selected by EchoStar Communications Corporation, Englewood, Colo., to build EchoStar XI, a new direct broadcast satellite (DBS) based on SS/Ls SSL-1300 platform that will support EchoStars DISH Network and serve as backup to its existing fleet. EchoStar XI, anticipated to be delivered in early 2007, will be the fifth SS/L-built satellite in the EchoStar fleet. Space Systems/Loral announced in April 2008 that it has been awarded a contract to manufacture a new direct broadcast satellite (DBS) for EchoStar Communications Corporation. The new satellite, which is based on SS/L's space-proven SSL-1300 platform, will support the expansion of DISH Network's programming and services.
Geostationary Transfer Orbit
1 Payload
5,511 kilograms
Manufacturer
YuzhmashRocket
Height: 59.46m
Payload to Orbit
LEO: 13,740 kg
GTO: 6,000 kg
Liftoff Thrust
7,257 Kilonewtons
Fairing
Diameter: 4.1m
Height: 10.4m
Stages
3
66th
Mission
5th
Mission of 2008
35th
Orbital launch attempt