DISH Gains More Satellite Capacity

[Gregg Lengling]

The International Bureau at the Federal Communications Commission granted EchoStar additional satellite capacity, giving the company an opportunity to expand services during the next few years.

Specifically, the bureau approved applications from EchoStar to construct and operate satellites at 83 degrees, 109 degrees and 121 degrees. The FCC approval is for EchoStar Satellite LLC and an entity called EchoStar KuX Corporation.

Specifically, the three bureau orders released Friday allows EchoStar to operate satellites in the fixed satellite service (FSS) using "extended" Ku-Band frequencies at the orbital locations. According to the FCC, EchoStar stated in its applications for the satellites that the extra capacity will supplement and support existing DTH services including more local TV and high-def programming, transport of programming to DBS uplink centers, international DTH, broadband offerings and programming transport services.

The proposed EchoStar satellite at 109 degrees will have 32 transponders while the proposed spacecraft for 121 degrees and 83 degrees will operate with 16 transponders. Currently, EchoStar operates DBS satellites at 119 degrees and 110 degrees as well as spacecraft at other orbital locations, including a hybrid Ku-Band/Ka-Band satellite at 121 degrees.

The International Bureau order also required EchoStar to execute a binding contract for construction of satellites within one year, complete a critical design review for the satellites within two years, commence construction within three years, and launch and begin operations within five years.

EchoStar was happy with the commission move. "We are pleased that the FCC has granted our application for these frequencies, and we plan to explore the alternatives that these opportunities present," said EchoStar spokesperson Steve Caulk.