The Amos-17 communication satellite has completed its Critical Design Review (CDR) and entered full production, owner Spacecom had confirmed.
Amos-17, a replacement for Amos-5, has been designed to cover the African continent and is scheduled to launch in early 2019. It will operate from 17 degrees East and offer coverage of Ka-band, Ku-band and C-Band HTS services.
David Pollack, president and CEO of Spacecom said, ” Amos-17, equipped with the latest generation digital payload, represents the most advanced satellite over Africa and further delivers on our long-term commitment to the African market. This satellite will bring multi-band high-throughput technologies to deliver unique service capabilities not possible on traditional satellites. We are introducing cutting edge satellite technology to Africa, that combined with our customer-centric approach, makes Spacecom the ideal choice for service providers. AMOS-17 will advance our support in creating a digital Sub-Sahara Africa society.
Boeing Satellite Systems International is building the satellite and SpaceX will send it into orbit on a Falcon-9 launch vehicle.