Hughes Network Systems, a subsidiary of EchoStar, has achieved a significant milestone in the deployment of its Jupiter 3 ultra-high-density satellite. The satellite has completed the deployment of solar arrays and antennas, and is now ready for satellite communications testing with ground equipment.

The Jupiter 3 satellite is set to deliver over 500 Gbps of additional broadband capacity across North and South America. It is the largest commercial satellite ever built and will double the capacity of Hughes’ fleet, providing ubiquitous connectivity throughout the Americas.

Hamid Akhavan, CEO of EchoStar, praised the engineering excellence and innovation demonstrated by the satellite. He also emphasized the satellite’s role in bridging the digital divide and providing internet access to rural communities. In addition to serving individual consumers, the Jupiter 3 satellite’s capabilities will extend to in-flight Wi-Fi for airline passengers, enterprise networking, and cellular backhaul for mobile network operators.

Positioned at 22,236 miles above the equator at 95 degrees west, the Jupiter 3 satellite is strategically located to significantly impact connectivity in the region. The successful completion of solar array and antenna deployment, along with readiness testing, represents an important step toward meeting the growing demand for high-speed broadband services in North and South America.