# Astra 2C

> communications satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q750276](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q750276)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astra_2C)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/astra-2c

Here’s the structured knowledge entry for **Astra 2C**:

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## Summary  
Astra 2C is a communications satellite operated by SES Astra, designed for telecommunications in geostationary orbit. Launched in 2001 aboard a Proton-K rocket, it provides broadcast and data services. It is part of the Astra satellite fleet, which delivers television and radio signals across Europe.

## Key Facts  
- **Operator**: SES Astra  
- **Launch Date**: June 16, 2001  
- **Launch Vehicle**: Proton-K rocket with Blok DM-2M space tug  
- **Launch Site**: Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 81/23  
- **COSPAR ID**: 2001-025A  
- **Orbit**: Geostationary  
- **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN)**: 26853  
- **Class**: Communications satellite  
- **Significant Event**: Rocket launch on June 16, 2001, from Baikonur Cosmodrome  

## FAQs  
### Q: What is the purpose of Astra 2C?  
A: Astra 2C is a communications satellite used for broadcasting television and radio signals, primarily serving Europe from geostationary orbit.  

### Q: Who operates Astra 2C?  
A: It is operated by SES Astra, a subsidiary of SES, a global satellite telecommunications company.  

### Q: When was Astra 2C launched?  
A: It was launched on June 16, 2001, aboard a Proton-K rocket from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan.  

## Why It Matters  
Astra 2C plays a critical role in the telecommunications infrastructure of Europe, enabling the broadcast of television and radio signals to millions of households. As part of the Astra satellite fleet, it contributes to the reliable delivery of media content, supporting both commercial and public service broadcasting. Its geostationary orbit ensures consistent coverage, making it a key asset for SES Astra’s operations. The satellite’s launch and deployment also demonstrate the capabilities of the Proton-K rocket and Blok DM-2M space tug, highlighting international collaboration in space technology.  

## Notable For  
- **Geostationary Orbit**: Provides stable, continuous coverage for broadcast services.  
- **Proton-K Launch**: Demonstrates the use of a Russian/Soviet-era rocket for commercial satellite deployment.  
- **SES Astra Fleet**: Part of a larger network of satellites delivering media across Europe.  

## Body  
### Launch and Deployment  
- **Launch Date**: June 16, 2001  
- **Rocket**: Proton-K with Blok DM-2M upper stage  
- **Launch Site**: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Site 81/23  

### Technical Specifications  
- **Operator**: SES Astra  
- **Orbit Type**: Geostationary  
- **COSPAR ID**: 2001-025A  
- **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN)**: 26853  

### Role and Function  
- **Primary Use**: Telecommunications and broadcasting  
- **Coverage Area**: Europe  
- **Fleet Affiliation**: Part of the Astra satellite network  

### Historical Context  
- **Significant Event**: Marked another successful deployment in SES Astra’s expanding satellite fleet.  
- **Launch Vehicle Legacy**: Proton-K, a workhorse of Soviet/Russian space programs, was used for this commercial mission.  

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This entry is based solely on the provided source material and avoids fabrication. Let me know if you'd like any refinements!

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report
2. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013