[Satellite Today 04-28-09] Hughes Network Systems and WildBlue Communications likely wil submit a joint proposal to the U.S. National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) for grants to underwrite the cost of end-user customer premises equipment, including satellite terminals, receivers and installation, according to an April 27 report from TMCnet.
    Hughes spokeswoman Judy Blake confirmed to Satellite Today that Hughes and WildBlue have been working together to promote using U.S. broadband stimulus funding for satellite infrastructure. “We have worked together with WildBlue to create joint-promotional advertising campaigns and initiatives on the broadband stimulus bill,” Blake said.
    Hughes has proposed to the NTIA that future satellites offer high download speeds and capacity and that the company’s upcoming SpaceWay platform could offer download speeds of as high as 20 to 30 megabits per second.