Bulgaria's First Geostationary Communications Satellite Begins Final Preparations for Launch aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9
SOFIA (Bulgaria), May 12, 2017 – BulgariaSat-1 has successfully arrived at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, where final preparations for launch are now underway.
The satellite was designed and manufactured for Bulgaria Sat by Space Systems/Loral (SSL), one of the world's leading satellite manufacturers. BulgariaSat-1 is scheduled to launch aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 from Cape Canaveral, becoming the first Bulgarian geostationary communications satellite.
Built on SSL's proven SSL 1300 satellite platform, BulgariaSat-1 is designed to provide reliable communications services for a minimum of 15 years. The spacecraft also carries sufficient onboard propellant to support up to five additional years of operation, resulting in an expected operational lifetime of approximately 20 years.
The mission will also mark another milestone in the commercial space industry, as BulgariaSat-1 is expected to become only the second satellite ever launched using a previously flown Falcon 9 first-stage booster.
"SSL has a long history of working with emerging satellite operators to help them establish and grow their businesses. We are pleased that the first satellite ever built for a Bulgarian company has successfully arrived at Cape Canaveral. We look forward to seeing BulgariaSat-1 make history not only as Bulgaria's first geostationary communications satellite, but also as one of the first commercial satellites launched aboard a flight-proven Falcon 9 booster. Reusable launch technology is becoming an important driver of innovation and efficiency across the satellite industry."
Service Capabilities
Once in service, BulgariaSat-1 will provide direct-to-home (DTH) television broadcasting and telecommunications services across the Balkans and other European markets.
The satellite is equipped with 32 communications transponders designed to support high-definition television broadcasting, video distribution, and a broad range of telecommunications and connectivity services.
About Bulgaria Sat
Bulgaria Sat is Bulgaria's only satellite operator and a pioneer in the country's space industry. The company provides reliable and secure satellite communications solutions to broadcast, telecommunications, enterprise, and government customers.
Headquartered in Sofia, Bulgaria, Bulgaria Sat develops and operates satellite infrastructure serving customers across Europe and the wider region.
About Space Systems/Loral
Space Systems/Loral (SSL) is a leading provider of commercial satellites and space systems, with extensive expertise supporting satellite operators and innovative space missions worldwide.
The company designs and manufactures spacecraft for direct-to-home television, video distribution, broadband connectivity, mobile communications, and Earth observation applications.
A Silicon Valley innovator for more than 60 years, SSL's product portfolio also includes advanced small satellites, robotics technologies, and automated on-orbit operations solutions.