IAI

Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has announced that it is developing a new lightweight and low-cost AMOS E communications satellite.

The satellite weighs 1.5t – 2t, making it about half the size of others currently operating.

Unlike chemical propulsion systems, the new AMOS E will be powered by an electrical propulsion system in order to half its weight.

This technology is also expected to lower launch costs, providing customers with an affordable communication service.

AMOS E is designed to have a life expectancy of 15 years to deliver services such as TV broadcasts and broadband internet.

IAI has completed development of the satellite but has not yet agreed on a launch date.

"The product line, which will be based on AMOS E, allows IAI to enter new market segments in the field of communications satellites."

IAI space division general manager Opher Doron said: "We invest tremendous knowledge and great thought in renewing and refreshing our array of satellites in order to maintain our lead in space systems.

"The product line, which will be based on AMOS E, allows IAI to enter new market segments in the field of communications satellites and to offer complete satellite operation capabilities at a competitive price.

"The new satellite is generating great interest among potential customers."

Recently, Facebook announced that it would use IAI’s AMOS 6 satellite to connect African regions to the internet. Spacecom satellite acquired AMOS 6, which will be launched next year.

IAI also has other technologies in development, including the Earth resources observation satellite (EROS) C for Israeli company ImagSat, to be launched in 2018.

Additionally, it is working towards improving lower-weight, higher maneuverability TESCAR radar observation satellite and developing a satellite that can provide high resolution images as small as 40 centimeters.

Image: Artistic impression of the IAI’s new lightweight and low-cost AMOS E communications satellite. Photo: courtesy of Israel Aerospace Industries.