Intelsat 39
| Company type | Communications satellite |
|---|---|
| Industry | Satellite communications |
| Founded | August 6, 2019 |
| Founder | Intelsat, Space Systems/Loral |
| Headquarters | Geostationary orbit (62° East) |
Area served | Asia, Africa, Europe |
| Parent | Intelsat |
Intelsat 39, also known as IS-39, is a communications satellite in geostationary orbit, managed by Intelsat and constructed by Space Systems/Loral, a subsidiary of Maxar Technologies, utilizing the SSL 1300 satellite platform. Located at the 62° East orbital slot, it delivers coverage in both C-band and Ku-band frequencies across Asia, Africa, and Europe.
Launch
The satellite was deployed on August 6, 2019, via an Ariane 5 launch vehicle from the Guiana Space Center situated in Kourou, French Guiana. It was launched together with EDRS-C/HYLAS-3. After reaching geostationary orbit through its primary engine burn, Intelsat 39 took over the position previously held by the older Intelsat 902 at 62° East.
Specifications
In May 2016, Intelsat contracted Space Systems/Loral to develop a next-generation communications satellite equipped with advanced transponders operating in the C-band and Ku-band. Designed for a lifespan exceeding 15 years, the spacecraft is powered by two solar panel arrays supported by onboard batteries. It features three-axis stabilization, weighs around , and employs both chemical propulsion and electric thrusters, using electric propulsion exclusively for in-orbit attitude adjustments.