Maxar Space Systems, based in Palo Alto, California, has successfully transferred operations of the JUPITER™ 3 satellite, the largest commercial communications satellite ever manufactured, to EchoStar. This remarkable spacecraft, also known as EchoStar XXIV, was built by Maxar in their Northern California facility and launched into space on a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket from Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

The JUPITER 3 satellite is part of Maxar’s Hughes JUPITER fleet, which includes two other spacecraft manufactured by the company. It represents a significant advancement in satellite engineering and showcases cutting-edge innovations in communication satellite design and functionality.

One of the standout features of the JUPITER 3 is its 14 solar panels, which have the potential to span the height of a 10-story building when fully deployed. These panels contribute to the satellite’s impressive scale, with a launch mass of 9 metric tons, surpassing the dimensions of conventional satellites.

The satellite incorporates industry-leading Q- and V-band gateway feeder links, as well as miniaturized, solid-state electronics. These advancements highlight Maxar’s pioneering spirit and their commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is achievable in space technology.

Chris Johnson, CEO of Maxar Space Systems, expressed his enthusiasm for the JUPITER 3, stating that it demonstrates the capabilities of the Maxar 1300™ platform in supporting a wide range of high-bandwidth communications missions. He also emphasized Maxar’s dedication to serving the GEO communications market and their commitment to pushing the limits of what is possible in space technology.

With the successful handover of the JUPITER 3 satellite to EchoStar, Maxar Space Systems continues to solidify its position as a leader in the commercial space industry, delivering groundbreaking satellite solutions that redefine the possibilities of communication technology in space.