# BSAT-1a

> Japanese communications satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q11191729](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q11191729)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BSAT-1a)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/bsat-1a

## Summary
BSAT-1a is a Japanese communications satellite launched on April 16, 1997, by the Ariane 44LP rocket. Operated by the Broadcasting Satellite System Corporation, it was designed for telecommunications and placed in geostationary orbit. The satellite was decommissioned on August 3, 2010.

## Key Facts
- **Launch Date**: April 16, 1997
- **Launch Vehicle**: Ariane 44LP
- **Operator**: Broadcasting Satellite System Corporation
- **Orbit**: Geostationary orbit
- **Decommissioning Date**: August 3, 2010
- **COSPAR ID**: 1997-016B
- **Instance of**: Communications satellite
- **Launch Site**: ELA-2

## FAQs
### Q: What was BSAT-1a used for?
A: BSAT-1a was a Japanese communications satellite designed for telecommunications, operated by the Broadcasting Satellite System Corporation.

### Q: When was BSAT-1a launched?
A: BSAT-1a was launched on April 16, 1997, using the Ariane 44LP rocket.

### Q: Where was BSAT-1a launched from?
A: BSAT-1a was launched from ELA-2, a launch site associated with the Ariane rocket family.

### Q: When was BSAT-1a decommissioned?
A: BSAT-1a was decommissioned on August 3, 2010.

### Q: What type of orbit did BSAT-1a use?
A: BSAT-1a was placed in a geostationary orbit.

## Why It Matters
BSAT-1a played a crucial role in Japan's early satellite communications infrastructure. As a communications satellite, it enabled television broadcasting, data transmission, and other telecommunications services. Its successful deployment and operation contributed to the development of Japan's satellite communication capabilities. The satellite's decommissioning in 2010 marked the end of its operational life, but it had laid the groundwork for subsequent satellite missions.

## Notable For
- First Japanese communications satellite in its class
- Pioneered telecommunications services in Japan
- Operated by the Broadcasting Satellite System Corporation
- Launched into geostationary orbit for stable coverage
- Decommissioned after 13 years of service

## Body
### Overview
BSAT-1a was a Japanese communications satellite launched to provide telecommunications services. It was part of the BSAT series, which aimed to enhance broadcasting and data transmission capabilities in Japan.

### Launch Details
- **Launch Date**: April 16, 1997
- **Launch Vehicle**: Ariane 44LP
- **Launch Site**: ELA-2

### Operational Details
- **Operator**: Broadcasting Satellite System Corporation
- **Orbit**: Geostationary orbit
- **COSPAR ID**: 1997-016B

### Decommissioning
- **Decommissioning Date**: August 3, 2010

### Significance
BSAT-1a was notable for its role in Japan's early satellite communications. It contributed to the expansion of broadcasting and data services, supporting both domestic and international communications needs. Its decommissioning marked the end of an era for the satellite, but it had a lasting impact on Japan's space infrastructure.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report