TAG: GS 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
THE CONTEXT: China’s first fully electric communication satellite, APSTAR 6E, has officially commenced operation.
EXPLANATION:
- China Great Wall Industry announced this significant milestone as the contractor for the project.
- The satellite’s successful transition to operational status marks a notable achievement in China’s space capabilities and communication technology.
APSTAR 6E
- APSTAR 6E was launched aboard a Long March 2C rocket from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in Sichuan province in January 2023.
- The satellite’s journey from deployment to operational status was extensive, involving a 514-day transition period.
- The satellite’s electric propulsion systems facilitated the transition from a low-Earth orbit to its designated geosynchronous orbit.
- These advanced propulsion systems enabled the satellite to manoeuvre to its final orbit gradually, demonstrating the efficiency and effectiveness of electric propulsion technology.
- APSTAR 6E was developed by the China Academy of Space Technology, a subsidiary of China Aerospace Science and Technology Corp (CASC).
- The satellite is based on the DFH-3E electric propulsion platform, specifically designed for operations in geosynchronous orbit.
- A satellite platform provides the foundational framework for assembling a satellite system tailored to its specific mission.
- It includes essential components such as power sources, propulsion, orbital control devices, and mission-specific instruments.
- This modular approach allows for streamlined configuration and efficient mission deployment.
- Weight: APSTAR 6E has a liftoff weight of 4.3 metric tons.
- Transponders: The satellite carries 25 Ku-band transponders and three Ka-band gateway transponders.
- Communication Throughput: It offers a combined communication throughput of 30 gigabytes per second.
Mission and Capabilities
- The primary mission of APSTAR 6E is to provide high-throughput broadband communication services to Southeast Asian nations.
- This capability is expected to significantly enhance the region’s communication infrastructure, supporting various applications such as internet connectivity, broadcasting, and telecommunications.
- As of the announcement, all in-orbit tests for APSTAR 6E had been completed.
- The results of these tests were reviewed and approved by an expert panel convened in Hong Kong.
- This approval marks the satellite’s readiness for full operational deployment.
Significance and Future Implications
- Technological Advancement
- APSTAR 6E represents a significant technological advancement for China in electric propulsion and satellite communications.
- The successful deployment and operation of the satellite underscore China’s growing capabilities in space technology and its commitment to advancing its aerospace industry.
- Regional Impact
- The high-throughput communication services provided by APSTAR 6E are poised to transform the communication landscape in Southeast Asia.
- Enhanced broadband connectivity will support economic growth, improve access to information, and facilitate the region’s digital transformation.
- Strategic Importance
- The successful operation of APSTAR 6E also highlights China’s strategic focus on expanding its influence and capabilities in space.
- As global competition in space technology intensifies, milestones such as these reinforce China’s position as a critical player in the international aerospace arena.