The Star One D1 satellite will be the first satellite of Star One´s fourth generation. Image credit: Star One

[Satellite TODAY 08-15-13] Space Systems/Loral will build a multi-mission communications satellite for Brazilian satellite operator Star One, a subsidiary of telecommunications company Embratel. The Star One D1 satellite will be the first satellite of Star One´s fourth generation.

      The satellite will be equipped with C-, Ku- and Ka-band payloads and will be used for telecommunications, television broadcast, broadband, Internet access and other services such as digital inclusion in Brazil and in the Latin American region.

      “The D1 will help transform the lives of many people in Latin America who currently do not have access to the high speed communications necessary for both economic and social well-being,” said Gustavo Silbert, president of Star One.

      Star One D1 will also support the Olympic Games in 2016 that will take place in Rio de Janeiro. Embratel, in a co-participation with Claro, has been selected as the official telecommunication sponsor for this worldwide event.

      Star One D1 is the second satellite SSL builds for the company and it will be based on the SSL 1300 satellite platform. The satellite will be located at 84 degrees west longitude and is scheduled for launch in early 2016 with an expected operational life of 15 years or more.