Hispasat has secured the first licence granted to a foreign satellite operator in Brazil. The company will serve the country via the recently launched Hispasat 1C. Hispasat also intends to launch a new satellite to operate in Brazil and has created a new subsidiary, Hispamar, to operate it.

Hispasat’s goal is to exploit the 61 degrees West orbital position. The new satellite will be similar to 1C and is likely to include Ka- band functionality.

Hispasat aims to have the new satellite ready in three years. Coverage will extend from Patagonia to southern Canada in the Ku- band and the whole of Latin America in C- Band. The satellite will cost Ptas 35 billion (Euro 210 million). The company sees a large potential market in high speed data and the sending and receiving of programmes to and from Latin America. Hispasat also sees a major revenue opportunity in DAMA networks. Hispasat’s immediate plan is to extend coverage in northern Africa and the whole of the Mediterranean basin. In Latin America the company’s plans include the launch of a lottery via satellite. Hispasat will also operate water analysis services and telemedicine through its satellites.