Azerspace-2
| Company type | Satellite telecommunications |
|---|---|
| Industry | Telecommunications satellite operator |
| Founded | 2018 |
| Founder | Azercosmos, Intelsat |
| Headquarters | Azerbaijan, United States (SSL in California) |
Area served | Central and Eastern Europe, Asia, Middle East, Sub-Saharan Africa |
| Products | Digital broadcasting, data communications, direct-to-home satellite services |
| Owner | Azercosmos, Intelsat |
Azerspace-2, also referred to as Intelsat 38, represents Azerbaijan's second satellite dedicated to telecommunications. It was manufactured by Space Systems/Loral (SSL) in California and is operated through a collaborative effort between Azercosmos and Intelsat.
History
In February 2015, a strategic partnership was established between Intelsat S.A. and Azercosmos OJSCo., Azerbaijan’s national satellite operator, concerning the orbital slot at 45° East. This collaboration enabled the creation of Azerspace-2. The funding for acquiring the satellite was largely secured via a favorable loan from Export Development Canada, the Canadian export credit agency.
Launch
The launch of Azerspace-2 took place on 26 September 2018 at 02:38 GMT+4 from the Guiana Space Centre in French Guiana. Following a testing period lasting two months, the satellite was positioned into its designated operational orbit. Azerspace-2 was designed to broaden Azercosmos’ coverage area, offering continuous service across Central and Eastern Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Sub-Saharan Africa. Additionally, it provides replacement capacity for the Intelsat 12 satellite.
Satellite description
Azerspace-2 supports digital broadcasting and data communications while facilitating direct-to-home (DTH) satellite services, contributing to the expansion of DTH providers within Azerbaijan. The satellite is projected to remain functional for approximately 15 years.
Orbit longitude
Situated in a geostationary orbit at the 45° East longitude position, Azerspace-2 delivers coverage to regions including Central and Eastern Europe, Sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. It also serves as a backup option for Azerspace-1.
Commercialization
According to Azercosmos, nearly 46% of the total capacity available on Azerspace-2 has been allocated to customers.