# EchoStar 21

> European communications satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q18470367](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q18470367)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/EchoStar_XXI)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/echostar-21

## Summary  
EchoStar 21 is a European communications satellite operated by EchoStar, designed for telecommunications services in geostationary orbit. Launched in 2017, it was built by Lanteris Space Systems and has a design life of 15 years. The satellite supports mobile and broadband communications across Europe.

## Key Facts  
- **Launch Date**: June 8, 2017, at 03:45:47 UTC from Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 81/24.  
- **Launch Vehicle**: Proton-M rocket with a Briz-M space tug.  
- **Mass**: 6,871 kg (launch weight).  
- **Operator**: EchoStar.  
- **Manufacturer**: Lanteris Space Systems, using the Lanteris 1300 spacecraft bus.  
- **Orbit**: Geostationary orbit.  
- **Design Life**: 15 years.  
- **Power Source**: Solar arrays with 2 panels.  
- **COSPAR ID**: 2017-032A.  
- **Country of Origin**: United States.  

## FAQs  
### Q: What is EchoStar 21 used for?  
A: EchoStar 21 is a communications satellite providing telecommunications services, including mobile and broadband connectivity, across Europe.  

### Q: Who owns EchoStar 21?  
A: The satellite is operated by EchoStar, a U.S.-based company specializing in satellite communications.  

### Q: How long will EchoStar 21 remain operational?  
A: It has a design life of 15 years, meaning it is expected to function until approximately 2032.  

## Why It Matters  
EchoStar 21 plays a critical role in enhancing telecommunications infrastructure in Europe, supporting mobile and broadband services for businesses and consumers. Its geostationary orbit ensures consistent coverage, while its advanced design and long operational life make it a reliable asset for connectivity. The satellite's launch aboard a Proton-M rocket highlights international collaboration in space technology, combining U.S. manufacturing with Russian launch capabilities. By addressing the growing demand for high-speed communications, EchoStar 21 contributes to the digital transformation of the region.  

## Notable For  
- **Geostationary Coverage**: Provides stable, continuous communication services over Europe.  
- **High Capacity**: Supports advanced telecommunications with its Lanteris 1300 bus and solar array power system.  
- **Longevity**: Designed for a 15-year service life, ensuring prolonged utility.  
- **International Collaboration**: Built in the U.S. and launched from Kazakhstan using a Russian Proton-M rocket.  

## Body  
### Launch and Deployment  
- Launched on June 8, 2017, from Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 81/24.  
- Used a Proton-M rocket with a Briz-M upper stage for orbital insertion.  

### Technical Specifications  
- **Mass**: 6,871 kg at launch.  
- **Power**: Solar arrays with 2 panels.  
- **Spacecraft Bus**: Lanteris 1300 platform.  

### Operational Details  
- **Operator**: EchoStar.  
- **Orbit**: Geostationary, ensuring fixed coverage over Europe.  
- **Design Life**: 15 years (until ~2032).  

### Historical Context  
- Construction contract signed in August 2006.  
- Originally named TerreStar 2 before being rebranded as EchoStar 21.  

### Identification Codes  
- **COSPAR ID**: 2017-032A.  
- **NSSDCA ID**: 2017-032A.  
- **Satellite Catalog Number**: 42749.

## References

1. [Source](https://space.skyrocket.de/doc_sdat/terrestar-1.htm)
2. Jonathan's Space Report