FLORIDA (REUTERS) - A communications satellite that will help provide broadband access across North America was successfully launched into space on Sunday.

The United Launch Alliance (ULA) ), a partnership of Lockheed Martin Corp and Boeing Co, launched the satellite on behalf of Hughes Network Systems.

An Atlas V rocket blasted off from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, carrying the EchoStar XIX satellite into orbit.

Hughes Network Systems said the high-capacity communications satellite will provide high-speed internet service to homes and businesses in North America.

The multi-spot beam Ka-band satellite, based on the SSL 1300 platform, will be stationed at 97.1 degrees West longitude, the United Launch Alliance said.