APSTAR 6E SATELLITE

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.

SOURCE:https://www.spacedaily.com/reports/Chinas_All_Electric_Communication_Satellite_APSTAR_6E_Now_Operational_999.html

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