THIRD GENERATION -- SATMEX 5, an HS 601HP satellite built for Satmex, is shown undergoing final vibration testing before shipment to Kourou, French Guiana, for an Ariane launch. SATMEX 5 has 48 transponders, 24 in C-band and 24 in Ku-band, and 7,000 watts of payload power. The satellite will also rely on a xenon ion propulsion system, XIPS, for north/south stationkeeping. Designed for 15 years, SATMEX 5 will provide business communications, television distribution, and educational programming services to a region stretching from Canada to the Patagonia. SATMEX 5 is the latest addition to the fleet of Hughes-built satellites serving Mexico. The first were Morelos I and II, launched in 1985, and Solidaridad 1 and 2, HS 601 spacecraft, launched in 1993 and 1994. SATMEX 5 will replace Morelos II at 116.8 degrees West longitude.


HUGHES SPACE AND COMMUNICATIONS COMPANY
Communications and Customer Relations
P.O. Box 92919 (S10/S323)
Los Angeles, CA 90009
(310) 364-6363
www.hughespace.com

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