SpaceX and Space Systems/Loral Sign Contract for Falcon 9 Geosynchronous Transfer Mission

15 March 2020

Space Exploration Technologies and Space Systems/Loral (SS/L) have signed an agreement for the launch of an SS/L manufactured satellite aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 as early as 2012. For this mission, Falcon 9 will launch from the SpaceX launch site at Cape Canaveral and insert the satellite into a geosynchronous transfer orbit (GTO).

Space Systems/Loral is the world’s leading provider of GEO commercial satellites with 40 percent of the high-power market since 2004. The company has an international roster of blue-chip customers, and its 1300 model satellite is a decades-proven, modular platform with the industry’s highest power capability and the flexibility to support a broad range of applications including high definition television and broadband.

"SpaceX is proud to be selected by Space Systems/Loral as they are one of the premier manufacturers of commercial satellites and the industry leader in satellite sales," said Gwynne Shotwell, President of SpaceX. "With 24 Falcon 9 flights now on manifest, SpaceX has established itself as an excellent partner for both commercial and government customers, and we look forward to supporting Space Systems/Loral on this launch."

“Like SS/L, the SpaceX team is committed to flawless performance and reliability,” said John Celli, president of Space Systems/Loral. “We are working closely with SpaceX to ensure the success of a 1300 launch based on our many years of experience. With numerous Falcon 9 launches on their manifest over the next two years, we are assured of a successful flight history in advance of our mission.”