Anik (satellite)
Overview
The Anik is a series of geostationary communications satellites launched by Telesat Canada for television in Canada, from 1972 through 2013. The name "Anik" means "little brother" in Inuktitut, an indigenous language in Canada, chosen to signify Canada's role as the smaller sibling of the United States in North America's telecommunications.
History
The Anik satellites are some of the earliest geostationary satellites for civilian use in North America. The first satellite in the series, Anik A1, was launched on November 9, 1972. It was the first satellite in the world to be placed in geostationary orbit by a domestic launch vehicle, the Delta.
Design and Technology
The Anik satellites have been designed and built by various companies, including Hughes, Boeing, and SSL. The satellites are equipped with transponders that operate in the C and Ku bands, and more recent models also operate in the Ka band.
Launch and Operations
The Anik satellites have been launched from various sites, including Cape Canaveral in Florida and the Guiana Space Centre in French Guiana. The satellites are operated by Telesat Canada from its headquarters in Ottawa, Ontario.
Legacy and Impact
The Anik satellites have played a critical role in the development of satellite television in Canada. They have also been instrumental in providing telecommunications services to remote and rural areas of the country.