Space Systems/Loral (SS/L), a Palo Alto, Calif.-based subsidiary of Loral Space & Communications [NYSE: LOR], has completed static-load testing of iPSTAR-1, the largest commercial communications satellite with a launch weight of 14,900 pounds (6775 kilograms). SS/L is building IPSTAR-1 for Shin Satellite of Thailand, which will use the spacecraft to provide broadband Internet services throughout a large portion of Asia, Australia and New Zealand.

With 84 spot beams and a total throughput capacity of approximately 40 Gbps, iPSTAR-1 will support as many as 8 million users, each at data rates up to 8 Mbps forward link and 4 Mbps second return link. Service prices will be comparable to ground-based broadband technologies, ushering in a new era in satellite delivered broadband services. Launch is planned for early 2004 into an orbital slot at 120 degrees East longitude.