New Directv-10 satellite comes alive

[RiseStar]

The recently launched Directv-10 satellite has successfully sent its first in orbit signals to the Boeing Mission Control center in El Segundo, California, a clear indication that the satellite is operating normally.

Directv, the United States largest direct to home satellite broadcaster plans to use the satellite to significantly expand its offerings of high definition programming to its 16 million customers. The Directv-10 satellite will be moved to its new location at 102.8 degrees west longitude after its in-orbit testing is completed within the next couple of months.

The Directv-10 satellite was constructed by Boeing and is among the most powerful Ka band satellites ever constructed, featuring state of the art antenna design and solar array, which results in a total of 18 000 watts of broadcasting power.

Direct-10's sister satellite Directv-11 is scheduled to be launched later this year, which will also be used to broadcast high definition programming. Additionally, a third satellite of this design will be used as an on-ground redundant backup, should either the Directv-10 or Directv-11 satellites encounter a systems failure.

Directv expects to offer over 100 high definition channels by year end.

[WarpedToys]

Any idea if this will up there high speed if you want to call it that internet? I have RR so no big deal to me I have 10mb down and 3mb up but I would think with this upgrade they would want to increase there speed to keep up with the cable company a bit more in remote areas where Direct TV is used most.

Just my 2 Cents. ;)

[RiseStar]

I don't think we will see real high speed via satellite anytime soon unless someone can figure out a way to change the laws of physics. Considering a signal has to travel 22 600 miles into space and then back again anytime you click your mouse. :) I used to have Direcpc and although its a lot faster than dialup, its painful when you have had ADSL or High Speed cable services. But like the saying goes, you can't miss what you have never had, so for people who are going from dialup to satellite high speed, it is a big difference and they likely do not notice the latency as much.