Anik F2 satellite

On July 17, 2004, Telesat successfully launched the Anik F2 satellite, the first satellite in North America to carry a digital onboard processor. Anik F2 is the first satellite to fully commercialize the Ka frequency band, a breakthrough satellite communications technology for delivering cost-effective, two-way broadband services. This state-of-the-art development enables dramatic improvements in access to two-way, high-speed Internet services for consumers and businesses throughout North America. This payload offers the promise to deliver cheaper, faster and more highly effective communications services and expand access to telemedicine, telelearning, teleworking, e-commerce, high-speed Internet and government services to citizens living in urban, rural and remote communities throughout Canada. (Credit: Boeing)