BSAT-4b
| Industry | Satellite communications |
|---|---|
| Headquarters | Japan |
Area served | Japan |
| Products | Direct-to-home broadcasting services including Ultra HD television (4K and 8K) |
BSAT-4b is a geostationary satellite dedicated to communications, commissioned by the Broadcasting Satellite System Corporation (B-SAT) and manufactured by SSL, a subsidiary of Maxar Technologies, utilizing the SSL 1300 satellite platform. Located at 110.0° East longitude, it provides direct-to-home broadcasting capabilities with support for Ultra HD television formats including 4K and 8K resolutions.
Satellite description
Developed by SSL, part of Maxar Technologies, BSAT-4b employs the SSL 1300 satellite bus and is operated on behalf of the Broadcasting Satellite System Corporation. The spacecraft has a launch mass of and is designed to operate for 15 years.
The satellite features 24 transponders operating in the Ku-band, enabling comprehensive Ultra HD satellite television coverage across Japan, including both 4K and 8K formats.
History
On 24 March 2018, BSAT-4b was ordered by B-SAT as its second satellite in the fourth-generation series from SSL. The specifications included a mass of , 24 Ku-band transponders, and an expected operational life of 15 years, with a targeted launch date in June 2020. The satellite was intended to serve as a backup to BSAT-4a and was planned to be operational prior to the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.
The launch contract was awarded to Arianespace on 19 April 2018, utilizing an Ariane 5 ECA rocket. By 1 July 2020, the satellite had been transported to French Guiana inside a container provided by RUAG Space.
Launch
The launch of BSAT-4b occurred on 15 August 2020 at 22:04 UTC.