Space Systems / Loral (SSL) has awarded a contract to Arianespace to launch the BSAT-4b satellite from Japanese operator Broadcasting Satellite System (B-SAT).
SSL has built the BSAT-4b satellite, which is scheduled to be launched on-board an Ariane 5 rocket in 2020 from Guiana Space Centre in Kourou, French Guiana.
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This will mark the 10th satellite launch conducted by Arianespace for B-SAT and the 32nd commercial geostationary satellite launch deal awarded to Arianespace in Japan.
BSAT-4b is equipped with 24 Ku-band transponders and will be placed in a 110° east geostationary orbit.
The 3,520kg satellite is expected to provide service for approximately 15 years.
Once launched, BSAT-4b will act as a back-up for the BSAT-4a satellite, which was launched by Arianespace in September.
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By GlobalDataBSAT-4b will provide direct-to-home television service to ensure 4K / 8K ultra-high definition video distribution for the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games held in Japan.
Arianespace CEO Stéphane Israël said: “This new Ariane 5 launch contract is a clear demonstration of the excellent relationships between Arianespace, SSL and the Japanese operator B-SAT, for whom we have launched the entire fleet of satellites since 1997.”
In addition, Arianespace is set to launch two missions from Japan by the final quarter of this year, including BepiColombo and Horizons 3e.
The BepiColombo mission has been developed by the European Space Agency in collaboration with Japan Space Exploration Agency, while Horizons 3e mission will be owned by Japanese SKY Perfect JSAT.
