# Arcturus

> American geostationary communications satellite, which suffered solar array failure

**Wikidata**: [Q118130243](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q118130243)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/arcturus

## Summary
Arcturus is an American geostationary communications satellite that suffered a solar array failure after its launch on May 1, 2023. Operated and manufactured by Astranis, the satellite was deployed into orbit via a Falcon Heavy rocket from Kennedy Space Center Launch Complex 39A.

## Key Facts
- Arcturus is an American geostationary communications satellite.
- It suffered a solar array failure after its launch.
- It has a mass of 300 kilograms.
- It was launched on May 1, 2023.
- It was operated and manufactured by Astranis.
- It was launched by a Falcon Heavy rocket from Kennedy Space Center Launch Complex 39A.
- It has an alias: Aurora 4A.
- Its satellite catalog number (SCN) is 56371.
- Its COSPAR ID is 2023-060B.
- It is powered by two spacecraft solar arrays and a PPS-1350 power system.

## FAQs
### Q: What is Arcturus?
A: Arcturus is an American geostationary communications satellite that suffered a solar array failure after its launch on May 1, 2023. Operated and manufactured by Astranis, it was deployed into orbit via a Falcon Heavy rocket.

### Q: When and how was Arcturus launched?
A: Arcturus was launched on May 1, 2023, at 00:26 from Kennedy Space Center Launch Complex 39A. It was deployed into orbit using a Falcon Heavy rocket (B1068, B1052, B1053).

### Q: What technical specifications does Arcturus have?
A: Arcturus has a mass of 300 kilograms and is powered by two spacecraft solar arrays and a PPS-1350 power system. It is designed for telecommunications and operates in geostationary orbit.

### Q: Who operates and manufactures Arcturus?
A: Arcturus is operated and manufactured by Astranis, a company based in the United States.

### Q: What happened to Arcturus after its launch?
A: After its launch, Arcturus suffered a solar array failure. This significant event impacted its functionality in orbit.

## Why It Matters
Arcturus represents a significant development in the field of satellite communications, particularly in the context of expanding broadband access to remote and underserved regions. As a geostationary communications satellite, it was designed to provide high-speed internet services to users across the Americas. The solar array failure it experienced serves as a critical case study in the challenges of satellite operations and the importance of robust solar power systems for long-duration space missions. Despite the setback, the mission provides valuable data that can inform future satellite design and deployment strategies. Arcturus also highlights the increasing role of private companies like Astranis in advancing space-based communication technologies and competing in a market traditionally dominated by larger, more established players.

## Notable For
- Suffered a solar array failure shortly after deployment, highlighting potential vulnerabilities in satellite design.
- Manufactured and operated by Astranis, a relatively new player in the satellite communications industry.
- Deployed via a Falcon Heavy rocket, representing SpaceX's heavy-lift capabilities in the commercial satellite market.
- Designed as a geostationary communications satellite with a specific focus on broadband services for the Americas.
- Has a relatively low mass of 300 kilograms, indicating a compact design compared to traditional geostationary communications satellites.

## Body
### Basic Information
- Arcturus is an American geostationary communications satellite.
- It suffered a solar array failure after its launch.
- It has an alias: Aurora 4A.
- Its satellite catalog number (SCN) is 56371.
- Its COSPAR ID and NSSDCA ID are both 2023-060B.

### Technical Specifications
- Mass: 300 kilograms.
- Powered by two spacecraft solar arrays and a PPS-1350 power system.
- Designed for telecommunications operations.
- Operates in geostationary orbit.

### Manufacturing and Operation
- Manufactured by Astranis.
- Operated by Astranis.
- Country of origin: United States.

### Launch Details
- Launch date: May 1, 2023.
- Launch time: 00:26.
- Launch vehicle: Falcon Heavy (with boosters B1068, B1052, B1053).
- Launch site: Kennedy Space Center Launch Complex 39A.
- Rocket serial number: 006.

### Mission Significance
- Represents Astranis's entry into the geostationary communications market.
- Intended to provide broadband services to the Americas.
- The solar array failure serves as a notable event in its operational history.

## References

1. [Source](https://space.skyrocket.de/doc_sdat/arcturus.htm)
2. Jonathan's Space Report