# EchoStar XVII

> communications satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q1280750](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1280750)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/EchoStar_XVII)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/echostar-xvii

## Summary
EchoStar XVII is a communications satellite operated by EchoStar. Also known by its alias "Jupiter 1," it was launched on July 5, 2012, aboard an Ariane 5 ECA launch vehicle from the ELA-3 launch complex. The satellite resides in a geostationary orbit and is identified by the COSPAR ID 2012-035A.

## Key Facts
- **Operator:** EchoStar
- **Launch Date:** July 5, 2012
- **Launch Vehicle:** Ariane 5 ECA
- **Launch Site:** ELA-3 (Ariane Launch Area 3)
- **COSPAR ID:** 2012-035A
- **Satellite Catalog Number:** 38551
- **Alternate Name:** Jupiter 1
- **Orbit Type:** Geostationary orbit
- **Classification:** Communications satellite (artificial satellite designed for telecommunications)

## FAQs
### Q: When was EchoStar XVII launched?
A: EchoStar XVII was launched on July 5, 2012. It was deployed using an Ariane 5 ECA rocket.

### Q: Who operates the EchoStar XVII satellite?
A: The satellite is operated by EchoStar. It is also identified by the alias "Jupiter 1."

### Q: What type of satellite is EchoStar XVII?
A: EchoStar XVII is a communications satellite designed for telecommunications. It is positioned in a geostationary orbit.

## Why It Matters
EchoStar XVII serves as a specific instance of commercial space infrastructure deployed for telecommunications purposes. As a geostationary satellite, it plays a role in the capability to provide stable, long-term communication services, a fundamental requirement for modern data and voice transmission networks. Its launch aboard the Ariane 5 ECA marks it as a payload significant enough to require a heavy-lift launch vehicle, underscoring its probable size and complexity within the EchoStar fleet. The identification of the satellite as "Jupiter 1" suggests it is a key component of a specific operational system or generation of services provided by the operator. By occupying a geostationary orbit, it contributes to the network of satellites that maintain fixed positions relative to the Earth, a critical characteristic for consistent signal coverage.

## Notable For
- Being identified by the alias **Jupiter 1**.
- Launching aboard the **Ariane 5 ECA**, a prominent European heavy-lift launch vehicle.
- Occupying a **geostationary orbit**, allowing for fixed-position communications coverage.
- Being a specialized **artificial satellite designed for telecommunications**.

## Body

### Identity and Classification
EchoStar XVII is an artificial satellite classified specifically as a communications satellite. It is designed to facilitate telecommunications. The entity holds the Satellite Catalog Number (SCN) 38551 and the international designator COSPAR ID 2012-035A. In operational contexts, it is also referred to as "Jupiter 1."

### Launch Details
The satellite underwent a significant rocket launch event on July 5, 2012.
*   **Launch Vehicle:** The launch was executed using an Ariane 5 ECA, a variant of the European Ariane 5 launch vehicle.
*   **Location:** The launch originated from ELA-3 (Ensemble de Lancement Ariane 3), a dedicated launch facility.

### Orbital Characteristics
EchoStar XVII operates within a geostationary orbit. This orbit type allows the satellite to match the Earth's rotation, effectively keeping it stationary over a fixed point on the equator. This is a standard orbit for communications satellites to ensure consistent coverage areas.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report
2. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013