Telesat has been a leader in satellite communications since the start of the industry and has built a strong record of technical innovation and achievement for nearly 50 years. In the 1960s, Telstar 1 was launched and used to deliver the first live, intercontinental satellite TV transmission. In the 1970s, Anik A1 became the first commercially operated domestic satellite in geostationary orbit. In the 1980s, Anik B was the first commercially operated Ku-band satellite. More recently, Anik F2 was the world's first satellite to successfully commercialize Ka-band for two-way high speed broadband services.

A record of industry firsts, with more to follow...

Telesat’s innovations have been central to the growth of satellite communications around the world. Here are a few highlights:

• 1962 – Telstar 1, built by Telesat's predecessors at AT&T and Bell Labs, successfully delivered the first live intercontinental satellite TV transmission between Europe and the United States.
• 1972 – Telesat launched Anik A1, the world's first commercial domestic communications satellite in geostationary orbit.
• 1978 – Telesat launched the first commercial Ku-band satellite on which was offered the first direct-to-home (DTH) television service, laying the groundwork for the global DTH industry.
• 1981 – Telesat co-located two satellites in a single orbital slot for the first time, now a widely used industry practice.
• 1996 – Telesat was the first to provide Internet access to ISPs over satellite.
• 2004 – Telesat launched Anik F2, the first satellite to successfully commercialize consumer Ka broadband services.
• 2009 – Telesat launched Telstar 11N, the first satellite to provide Ku-band coverage of the Atlantic Ocean from the Arctic Circle to the Equator.

A key part of Telesat’s record of innovation has been our Research & Development Lab. A dedicated team that focuses on practical communications advancements for leading commercial and government organizations like the World Broadcast Union and the European Space Agency.

Telesat Selected Global Satellite Operator of the Year

In 2010, a panel of Industry Experts selected Telesat as Global Satellite Operator of the Year. With our financial strength, corporate stability and proven management team, Telesat has the resources and vision to achieve even more for our customers and business partners.