Rendition of EchoStar24/Jupiter 3 satellite. Photo: SSL.

Hughes Network Systems has signed a contract with Space Systems Loral (SSL) to build its next-generation Jupiter 3 Ultra High Density Satellite (UHDS), to be designated EchoStar 24. The new satellite is targeted at key markets across the Americas and will more than double the Hughes Ka-band capacity in the region, Hughes stated.

According to Hughes, EchoStar 24/Jupiter 3 will increase capacity and support business expansion in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, and other countries in South America. Planned for launch in early 2021, the satellite will drive growth of HughesNet, and provide new capacity across a range of service sectors including consumer, enterprise, aeronautical, cellular backhaul and community Wi-Fi markets.

According to SSL, the satellite will feature an entirely new architecture based on technology advances that include the miniaturization of electronics, solid state amplifiers, and more efficient antenna designs. SSL has patented 18 technology advances it incorporated into the spacecraft design.