After successfully completing a series of crucial tests, the new broadband Satellite of Avanti Communications, HYLAS1, is still on a schedule to be launched in UK and Europe. This satellite will aim to provide the patrons TV, voice and internet connection speeds of up to 8Mbps download and 2Mbps upload.

These satellite testing included a major test of thermal-vacuum which is the most demanding of all. It was conducted in mid-May in Bangalore, India. For HYLAS, this included an experience of orbiting various times for over a period of four weeks, by blanketing the entire satellite between the temperature extremes.

The satellite is expected to give broadband internet access services by the end of this year, as it'll be launched from a fanatical Soyuz vehicle, prior to which, it'll be itself shipped to Europe's Spaceport in French Guiana during August. The satellite is deemed to have a lifetime of about 15 years and is planned to be launched at 33.5 Degrees west into a geostationary orbit.

Despite of these facilities, if HYLAS is hopeful to stand a good chance of infringement into distant and rural communities, then it must build up to beat Eutelsat's prices and usage allowances (i.e. 3.6Mbps with a 2.4GB usage allowance for around £30 per month).