Xplornet Announces Successful 'Liftoff' of ViaSat-2, the Highest Capacity Communications Satellite Ever Launched

Xplornet Communications Inc. (CNW Group/Xplornet Communications Inc.)

Delivering faster Internet speeds and more data to rural Canadians

WOODSTOCK, NB, June 2, 2017 /CNW/ - Rural Canadians are once again about to get a big boost in Internet speed and capacity, thanks to game-changing new investments in satellite Internet service by Xplornet Communications Inc.

Xplornet, one of Canada's leading broadband service providers, today announced the successful launch of the ViaSat-2 satellite from the Guiana Space Center in French Guiana. 

ViaSat-2 is one half of Xplornet's new satellite broadband program, which triples Xplornet's current satellite Internet capacity.  Xplornet is the exclusive Canadian residential provider on two satellites, the two highest capacity broadband satellites ever launched. 

Once in commercial operation, ViaSat-2 is to deliver more speed and data at affordable prices for Xplornet's customers.  Xplornet's new Internet service will deliver the fastest residential speeds offered via satellite in Canada, at up to 25 megabits per second (download). 

"At Xplornet, we are extremely proud to invest in innovative, new technologies to dramatically improve Internet service for rural Canadians," said Allison Lenehan, President and CEO of Xplornet Communications.  "These satellites will measurably improve service for our loyal customers, and provide new customers with more data at speeds not previously available in many parts of Canada."

This investment reflects Xplornet's commitment to using innovation to make fast and affordable Internet available to Canadians in rural and remote areas.  With more speed, more data and prices starting at $59.99 per month, Xplornet is ushering in a new era of connectivity and delivering more of what matters to current and future customers.  

New and existing Xplornet customers are encouraged to visit xplornet.com to determine services currently available in their area.

Quick Facts:

• The ViaSat-2 satellite was launched aboard an Arianespace Ariane 5 ECA launch vehicle from the Guiana Space Center, Europe's Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana.
  
  
• ViaSat-2 weighed 6418 kilograms (14,149 pounds) at launch, with solar panels spanning 158 feet. The satellite will take several months to reach geostationary orbit, located 35,785 kilometres above the equator.
  
  
• Xplornet expects the ViaSat-2 satellite service to be available to customers in the first quarter of 2018.

About Xplornet Communications Inc.
Headquartered in Woodstock, New Brunswick, Xplornet Communications Inc. is one of Canada's leading broadband service providers.  For over a decade, Xplornet has been providing innovative broadband solutions to rural customers at work, home and play across Canada.  Today, Xplornet offers voice and data communication services through its unique wireless and satellite network that connects Canadians to what matters.  To learn more, visit www.xplornet.com.

SOURCE Xplornet Communications Inc.

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