International Launch Services (ILS) has launched the QuetzSat-1 satellite into geostationary transfer orbit aboard its ILS Proton Breeze M for operator SES of Luxembourg.

The 5,600kg QuetzSat-1 is based on Space Systems/Loral’s 1300 satellite platform and carries 32 Ku-band transponders, and is designed to deliver service for 15 years or longer.

The entire capacity of the 20kW communications broadcasting satellite has been acquired by EchoStar for the coverage of Mexico, the US and Central America.

The satellite supports a range of applications and technology advances and provides high power for advanced DTH television.