Nimiq 5 is a direct broadcast satellite being built for Telesat, the world's fourth largest fixed satellite services operator. Based on SS/L's heritage 1300 platform, Nimiq 5 will be equipped with 32 active high-power Ku-band transponders, providing a strong footprint across Canada and the U.S. The satellite's entire payload is under contract to EchoStar. Nimiq 5 will provide a wide range of high definition and specialty television services to its subscribers.