Maxar-built Galaxy 31 and Galaxy 32 Satellites for Intelsat Performing Properly After Launch

Rhea-AI Summary

Maxar Technologies (NYSE:MAXR) successfully launched two geostationary satellites, Galaxy 31 and Galaxy 32, for Intelsat aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral, Florida. These satellites will assist Intelsat in transitioning services as part of the FCC's C-band spectrum plan for 5G. This marks a significant milestone in Maxar and Intelsat's long-term partnership, enhancing media content distribution in North America. Galaxy 31 and Galaxy 32 are the first of five satellites commissioned under this contract, with further launches planned in December 2022.

Positive

• Successful launch of Galaxy 31 and Galaxy 32 enhances partnership with Intelsat.
• First of five satellites to aid in the FCC's C-band spectrum transition for 5G.
• Satellites are performing as expected, initiating the journey to geostationary orbit.

Negative

• None.

WESTMINSTER, Colo.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Maxar Technologies (NYSE:MAXR) (TSX:MAXR), provider of comprehensive space solutions and secure, precise, geospatial intelligence, today announced that Galaxy 31 and Galaxy 32, built for Intelsat, are performing as expected after being launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral, Florida.

These two geostationary satellites will enable Intelsat, operator of the world’s largest integrated satellite and terrestrial network and leading provider of inflight connectivity, to transfer its services—uninterrupted—as part of the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) plan to reallocate parts of the C-band spectrum for 5G terrestrial wireless services. Galaxy 31 and Galaxy 32 are the first of five satellites that Intelsat contracted Maxar to build for the C-band transition. All five satellites will be built on Maxar’s proven 1300-class platform, which offers the flexibility and power needed for a broad range of customer missions.

Shortly after launch earlier today, both satellites deployed their solar arrays and began receiving and sending signals. Next, Galaxy 31 and Galaxy 32 will begin firing thrusters to commerce their journeys to final geostationary orbit.

“Today’s launch of Galaxy 31 and Galaxy 32 is another milestone in Maxar and Intelsat’s decades-long relationship,” said Chris Johnson, Maxar Senior Vice President and General Manager of Space. “Our team will begin initial on-orbit checkout and Intelsat will proceed with commissioning activities of these satellites so that Intelsat can start moving their services to the new spectrum.”

“The Intelsat Galaxy fleet is the most reliable and efficient media content distribution system in North America, enabled by Maxar’s engineering and manufacturing expertise,” said David C. Wajsgras, Intelsat CEO. “This investment will deliver a high-performance technology path through the next decade.”

Maxar also manufactured Intelsat’s Galaxy 35 and Galaxy 36, which are preparing for launch in mid-December 2022.

About Maxar

Maxar Technologies (NYSE:MAXR) (TSX:MAXR) is a provider of comprehensive space solutions and secure, precise, geospatial intelligence. We deliver disruptive value to government and commercial customers to help them monitor, understand and navigate our changing planet; deliver global broadband communications; and explore and advance the use of space. Our unique approach combines decades of deep mission understanding and a proven commercial and defense foundation to deploy solutions and deliver insights with unrivaled speed, scale and cost effectiveness. Maxar’s 4,400 team members in over 20 global locations are inspired to harness the potential of space to help our customers create a better world. Maxar trades on the New York Stock Exchange and Toronto Stock Exchange as MAXR. For more information, visit www.maxar.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release may contain forward-looking statements that reflect management's current expectations, assumptions and estimates of future performance and economic conditions. Any such forward-looking statements are made in reliance upon the safe harbor provisions of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The Company cautions investors that any forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results and future trends to differ materially from those matters expressed in or implied by such forward-looking statements, including those included in the Company’s filings with U.S. securities and Canadian regulatory authorities. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, other than as may be required under applicable securities law.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20221112005055/en/

Investor Relations Contact:

Jonny Bell

Maxar Investor Relations

1-303-684-5543

jonny.bell@maxar.com



Media Contact:

Kristin Carringer

Maxar Media Relations

1-303-684-4352

kristin.carringer@maxar.com

Source: Maxar Technologies

FAQ

What is the significance of the launch of Galaxy 31 and Galaxy 32 for Maxar?

The launch is a milestone in Maxar's long-term partnership with Intelsat and supports the FCC's C-band spectrum transition.

When were Galaxy 31 and Galaxy 32 launched?

They were launched on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral, Florida.

How many satellites has Maxar contracted to build for Intelsat?

Maxar is contracted to build five satellites for Intelsat's C-band transition.

What role do Galaxy 31 and Galaxy 32 play in the FCC's plan?

They will help Intelsat transfer services uninterrupted as part of the FCC's plan for 5G.

What is the launch date of additional satellites by Maxar for Intelsat?

Galaxy 35 and Galaxy 36 are scheduled for launch in mid-December 2022.