 high resolution image available here |
| ANTENNA ASSEMBLY LINE -- Hexagonal transmit and receive antennas for New ICO, formerly ICO Global Communications, satellites line up in the Hughes Space and Communications Company factory. Hughes is building three new satellites, in addition to modifying the 11 already under contract. These active-array S-band antennas allow the satellites to form as many as 163 simultaneous beams to communicate directly with mobile phone users worldwide. The antennas, made primarily of aluminum, measure approximately 120 inches across and 90 inches high. Each satellite has a pair of transmit and receive antennas, positioned side-by-side on the earth-facing surface. In the foreground of the photo, one receive antenna is complete, with its 127 radiating elements in place. Behind it are three antennas with their 127 filters installed. Technicians are about to install a ground plane panel on the next antenna. The radiating elements will be attached to that. Hughes is building the satellites and providing ground control and communication equipment. |
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HUGHES SPACE AND COMMUNICATIONS COMPANY Communications and Customer Relations P.O. Box 92919 (S10/S323) Los Angeles, CA 90009 Media Relations (310) 364-6363 Investor Relations (310) 662-9688 www.hughespace.com |
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