BSat 3a [LMSS]
In 2005 Lockheed Martin was selected to build the third generation of Broadcasting Satellite System Corporation's satellites. Designated BSAT-3a, the 1.8-kW satellite will provide direct broadcast services throughout Japan following its scheduled launch the second quarter of 2007.
BSAT-3a will comprise 12 130 W Ku-band channels (8 operating at one time) and will be located at 110 degrees East longitude. With a design life of over 13 years, BSAT-3a is based on the award-winning A2100A platform manufactured by Lockheed Martin Commercial Space Systems (LMCSS), Newtown, Pa. BSAT-3a marks the 12th Lockheed Martin satellite ordered in the 1- to 4-kW small-class satellite range.
In April 2008 a second spacecraft called BSat-3b was ordered for a launch in 2010.
| Nation: | Japan |
|---|---|
| Type / Application: | Communication |
| Operator: | Broadcasting Satellite System Corporation (B-SAT) |
| Contractors: | Lockheed Martin |
| Equipment: | 12 Ku-band transponders (130W) |
| Configuration: | A2100A |
| Propulsion: | LEROS-1c |
| Power: | 2 deployable solar arrays, batteries |
| Lifetime: | 13 years (#3a); 15 years (#3b) |
| Mass: | 1967 kg (#3a); 2060 kg (#3b) |
| Orbit: | GEO |
| Satellite | COSPAR | Date | LS | Launch Vehicle | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BSat 3a | 2007-036B | 14.08.2007 | Ko ELA-3 | Ariane-5ECA | with Spaceway 3 |
| BSat 3b | 2010-056B | 28.10.2010 | Ko ELA-3 | Ariane-5ECA | with Eutelsat W3B |