EchoStar 3 was originaly ordered as DBSC 1 by DBSC (Direct Broadcast Satellite Corporation) which
merged with a subsidiary of EchoStar in late 1995. The merger was approved by the FCC in
August 1996. EchoStar is only authorized to operate 11 transponders from 61.5°W but was
granted in Mar 1998 a special authorization to use the full frequency space at that
location.
Echsostar 4 should have replaced EchoStar 1 at 119°W
which would then have moved to 148°W (where only 24 transponders have been granted to
EchoStar). After launch, the satellite has experienced anomalies in connection with solar
panel deployment (two of five panels on one solar array have not unfolded). Therfore
several transponders are not operational, so EchoStar 4 did not replace EchoStar 1. In Jul 1999 further anomalies with thermal control
and fuel systems were reported. Only 16 transponders are reported to be operational.
EchoStar has filled for constructive total loss of the satellite, which was insured for
$220 million. In Jun 1999 the FCC approved a move request to 110°W to allow EchoStar to
start broadcasting from there. Earlier the FCC granted to transfer of the 110°W licence
of MCI to EchoStar. During May 1999, EchoStar IV experienced anomalies affecting
transponders, heating systems and the fuel system. In July 1999, additional fuel system
anomalies were confirmed. By 31 October 2000, a total of 26 transponders of 44 aboard
failed and by 30 June 2002, 38 transponders had failed. Only six transponders were
available for use at this time. Currently the satellite functions as an in-orbit spare. In
September 2004, the jammed solar array deployed spontaneously.
EchoStar 7 carries 32 Ku-band transponders capable of operating at 120 Watts per
channel, which are switchable to 16 transponders capable of operating at 240 Watts per
channel. The 4027 kg (8876 lbm) direct broadcast satellite was built by Lockheed Martin
using the A2100AX spacecraft bus. Five transponder frequencies may also be used in a spot
beam mode for a potential total of 15 spot beams.
EchoStar 3 stopped transmitting in July 2017. In September, it had been recovered and was placed in graveyard orbit 350 km above the geostationary belt.
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