Ciel II satellite prepares for launch, EchoStar service

While we can only imagine that most DISH Network subscribers are waiting anxiously for EchoStar XV to liftoff in 2010, we've got somewhat of an appetizer to share with you today. International Launch Services is making its final preparations to send off the Ciel II communications satellite for an estimated 16 years of service to Ciel and EchoStar. On the official Mission Control page, the "Purpose" is simply listed as "various services," so it's hard to say if this will be used for additional bandwidth or just to look pretty in outer space. Suppose we'll find out soon enough, as the bird takes flight at 8:43ET on December 10th.

[Thanks, Vanbrothers]

Read - Press release
Read - Mission Control website

[(Unverified) Posted Dec 9th 2008 11:50AM]

Obviously, the 'pretty' guess is more likely in this economy.

[(Unverified) Posted Dec 9th 2008 12:24PM]

Ciel II is headed for the 129 orbital slot. It's got the same transponder load as Echostar X and XI (32 if memory serves).

Live streaming of the launch at http://streamvox.streamos.com/vyvx/ils121008/ starting at 8:15 AM ET tomorrow morning.

[(Unverified) Posted Dec 18th 2008 8:37PM]

Actually the Official launch site states this:


Satellite Use:
Advanced Broadcast Satellite Service satellite delivering high-definition and other TV services throughout North America; anchor customer is DISH Network Corp.

Source: http://ilslaunch.com/news-12050/