Orbital BSAT-2 Series - Manual

Coverage:
Japan
Mission:
Ku-band digital broadcast satellite (DBS)
for Japanese television
Customer:
Broadcasting Satellite System
Corporation (B-SAT)
Communications
Mission Description
The BSAT-2 satellites were designed to provide direct-to-home digital high-definition television
throughout Japan. Built for the Broadcasting Satellite System Corporation (B-SAT), these satellites
relayed channels at higher resolution and in a wider-screen format than traditional analog systems.
BSAT-2a was launched March 8, 2001. BSAT-2b, an in-orbit backup to BSAT-2a was placed into an
incorrect orbit by an Ariane 5 rocket in July 2001. Orbital was awarded the contract to supply
BSAT-2c, the replacement for BSAT-2b, in October 2001 and the satellite was launched June 11,
2003. The entire system, including the ground segment, was fully redundant, helping to ensure reliable
television service.
Spacecraft
The BSAT-2 satellities are based on Orbital’s highly successful Geosynchronous Earth Orbit (GEO)
communications satellites which are able to accommodate all types of commercial communications
payloads and are compatible with all major commercial launchers. The company’s GEOStar product
line includes the GEOStar-2 design, which is optimized for smaller satellite missions that can support
up to 5.0 kilowatts of payload power. Orbital has also developed the higher-power GEOStar-3
spacecraft design, delivering the next increment of payload power for applications between 5.0 and
8.0 kilowatts, allowing Orbital to offer its innovative and reliable satellite design to the medium-class of
communications satellites.
FACTS AT A GLANCE
BSAT-2 Series
DTH Ku-band Commercial Communications Satellites
GEO
BSAT-2a in production