Bulgaria Sat’s new BulgariaSat-1 communication satellite has arrived at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in the US for its launch into space.

Designed and built by Space Systems Loral (SSL), the satellite is set be launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket next month.

Once launched, it will offer high-quality direct-to-home television and telecommunications services in the Balkans and other European regions.

With a lifespan of 15 years or more, BulgariaSat-1 is Bulgaria's first satellite and is equipped with 30 Ku-band broadcasting satellite service (BSS) transponders.

“SSL has been an excellent partner in helping us make our vision a reality and we eagerly await next month’s launch.”

SSL president John Celli said: “SSL has a history of working closely with new satellite operators to help them move their businesses forward.

“We are pleased that this first satellite ever built for a company in Bulgaria has safely arrived at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, and look forward to BulgariaSat-1 making history as the second satellite ever to launch on a Falcon 9 that has flown a previous mission.

“Launch vehicle reuse is an important enabler for the satellite industry.”

The company further noted that it had used its SSL 1300 platform to build the satellite.

Bulgaria Sat CEO Maxim Zayakov said: “SSL has been an excellent partner in helping us make our vision a reality and we eagerly await next month’s launch.”

Bulgaria Sat is an affiliate of Bulsatcom, a telecommunications company and pay-TV services provider in Bulgaria.

Image: SSL designed and built Bulgaria Sat-1satellite for Bulgaria Sat. Photo: courtesy of SSL.