BSAT-4a
| Industry | Satellite communications |
|---|---|
| Headquarters | Japan |
Area served | Japan |
| Products | Communications satellites, satellite broadcasting services |
BSAT-4a is a communications satellite operating in geostationary orbit, commissioned by Broadcasting Satellite System Corporation (B-SAT) and manufactured by SSL utilizing the SSL 1300 satellite platform. It occupies the orbital position at 110.0° East and facilitates direct broadcasting of television content in 4K and 8K Ultra HD formats. The satellite was successfully launched on 29 September 2017.
Satellite description
Developed by SSL on the SSL 1300 bus for BSAT, BSAT-4a possesses a launch mass of approximately and is engineered for a service duration of 15 years.
The satellite is outfitted with a single payload operating in the Ku-band, comprising 24 transponders. This configuration enables BSAT-4a to provide Ultra HD satellite broadcasting at both 4K and 8K resolutions throughout Japan.
History
On 18 June 2015, BSAT placed an order with SSL for the construction of BSAT-4a, marking its fourth-generation satellite. The specifications included a launch mass near , a complement of 24 Ku-band transponders, and a design life expectancy of 15 years. The satellite's launch occurred on 29 September 2017, with the objective of supporting 4K and 8K broadcast transmissions by mid-2020.
In September 2015, BSAT engaged Arianespace to conduct the launch aboard an Ariane 5 ECA vehicle and obtained initial licensing approvals for Ultra HD broadcasting services. These steps underscored its strategic initiative to advance next-generation satellite television offerings.