SES-2
| Industry | Satellite communications |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1985 |
| Headquarters | Betzdorf , Luxembourg |
| Parent | SES |
SES-2 is a communications satellite managed by SES and was deployed simultaneously with the Arabsat-5C satellite.
Spacecraft
SES-2 incorporates the pioneering hosted payload concept, enabling government agencies to install their equipment on commercial satellite platforms. It is equipped with 24 C-band and 24 Ku-band transponders, each offering 36 MHz bandwidth. To improve operational versatility, six transponders from each band can be cross-connected to the other band. The satellite supplies approximately 5.0 kW of power to its payload and utilizes two deployable reflectors measuring 2.3 meters in diameter. Additionally, it carries the Commercially Hosted InfraRed Payload (CHIRP) developed for the U.S. Air Force, which tests infrared sensing technology from geostationary orbit for missile detection purposes.
Launch
The communications satellite SES-2 was launched on 21 September 2011 at 21:38 UTC from the Centre Spatial Guyanais in Kourou via an Ariane 5 ECA rocket. With a launch mass of 3200 kg, it became part of SES’s fleet of four other spacecraft constructed by Orbital Sciences, providing coverage over North America, Latin America, and the Caribbean. The satellite is stationed at an orbital slot of 87° West longitude.
Mission
Beginning its commercial operations on 27 October 2011 at the 87° West orbital position, SES-2 broadcasts updated Othernet archives to compact Othernet receivers. These devices are designed to supply communities without internet connectivity with essential information such as news, weather updates, educational content, and media.