SES’s first hybrid satellite to launch in April

SES-15 arrives in Kourou

Satellite operator SES is due to launch its first SES hybrid satellite, SES-15, in April.

SES-15 has arrived at the European Space Center in Kourou, French Guiana, ahead of its planned launch next month by a Soyuz vehicle.

The satellite is equipped with 16 Ku-band transponders as well as a 10 GHz high throughput payload.

The all-electric satellite will operate at the new orbital position of 129 degrees West – serving North America, Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean.

It will deliver global coverage for major global IFC/IFE providers and will also enable other data applications such as government, VSAT networks and maritime.

“Designed and manufactured by Boeing, SES-15 will carry a hybrid payload, with additional Ku-band wide beams and Ku- as well as Ka-band High Throughput Satellite (HTS) capability,” said SES in a statement.

The satellite is the first of three planned SES hybrid wide beam and HTS satellites.