# Astra 2E

> communications satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q14288806](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q14288806)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astra_2E)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/astra-2e

## Summary
Astra 2E is a geostationary communications satellite operated by SES S.A. Launched on September 29, 2013, it serves as an artificial satellite of the Earth designed specifically for telecommunications. It was delivered into orbit via a Proton-M heavy-lift launch vehicle from the Baikonur Cosmodrome.

## Key Facts
- **Operator:** SES S.A.
- **Launch Date:** September 29, 2013
- **Launch Vehicle:** Proton-M (Russian heavy-lift launch vehicle)
- **Launch Site:** Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 200
- **Orbit Type:** Geostationary orbit
- **Space Tug:** Briz-M
- **COSPAR ID:** 2013-056A
- **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN):** 39285
- **Classification:** Communications satellite; artificial satellite of the Earth

## FAQs
### Q: Who is the operator of the Astra 2E satellite?
A: Astra 2E is operated by SES S.A., a global satellite telecommunications company. Its official operations are managed through the website ses.com.

### Q: What rocket was used to launch Astra 2E?
A: The satellite was launched using a Proton-M heavy-lift launch vehicle, which is part of the Soviet/Russian Proton family of rockets. The mission also utilized a Briz-M space tug for orbital placement.

### Q: Where was Astra 2E launched from?
A: Astra 2E was launched from Site 200 at the Baikonur Cosmodrome. The launch occurred on September 29, 2013.

### Q: What is the orbital position of Astra 2E?
A: Astra 2E is a satellite of the geostationary orbit, meaning it maintains a fixed position relative to the Earth's surface to provide consistent telecommunications coverage.

## Why It Matters
Astra 2E is a critical component of the global telecommunications infrastructure managed by SES S.A. As a communications satellite in geostationary orbit, it facilitates the transmission of data and media services across the Earth. Its successful deployment in 2013 highlights the technical coordination required between international satellite operators and Russian launch services. By utilizing the Proton-M heavy-lift vehicle and the Briz-M space tug, the mission demonstrated the complex logistics involved in placing high-capacity spacecraft into precise orbital slots. 

As an artificial satellite of the Earth, Astra 2E contributes to the network of orbital assets that enable modern digital connectivity. Its presence in geostationary orbit ensures that it remains a reliable fixed point for ground-based receivers, a necessity for stable telecommunications. Furthermore, its identification through international systems like COSPAR and the Satellite Catalog Number (SCN) allows for the precise tracking and management of the satellite within the increasingly populated space environment. Its operation supports the broader mission of SES S.A. to provide global satellite-based communication solutions.

## Notable For
- **Heavy-Lift Launch:** Utilized the Proton-M, a heavy-lift launch vehicle from the Russian Proton family, for its ascent into space.
- **Geostationary Positioning:** Operates as a geostationary satellite, providing a stable platform for telecommunications services.
- **Briz-M Integration:** Employed the Briz-M space tug to assist in reaching its final orbital destination after the initial rocket launch.
- **International Tracking:** Recognized globally under the COSPAR ID 2013-056A and SCN 39285.

## Body

### Launch and Mission Details
Astra 2E was launched on September 29, 2013. The significant event took place at the Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 200. The mission utilized a Proton-M heavy-lift launch vehicle, a rocket type belonging to the broader Proton family originally developed by the Soviet Union and continued by Russia. To reach its intended orbit, the satellite was paired with a Briz-M space tug.

### Technical Classification
The entity is classified under two primary categories:
*   **Communications Satellite:** An artificial satellite designed specifically for telecommunications.
*   **Artificial Satellite of the Earth:** A spacecraft orbiting the Earth.

### Identification and Tracking
Astra 2E is documented across several scientific and academic databases with the following identifiers:
*   **COSPAR ID:** 2013-056A
*   **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN):** 39285
*   **Wolfram Language Entity Code:** Entity["Satellite", "39285"]
*   **Freebase ID:** /m/0wbn7lr

### Ownership and Administration
The satellite is owned and operated by SES S.A. It is positioned in geostationary orbit, where it serves as a dedicated platform for communication services. Information regarding its operations is maintained by the operator at their official website, ses.com. The satellite's history and technical data are documented in multiple languages, including English, German, Russian, and Portuguese.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report