# BSAT 2A

> Japanese communications satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q11191731](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q11191731)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BSAT-2a)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/bsat-2a

## Summary
BSAT-2a is a Japanese communications satellite designed for telecommunications relay. Launched on March 8, 2001, it was delivered into a geostationary orbit using the European Ariane 5G launch vehicle. The satellite is identified by the COSPAR ID 2001-011B and serves as a key component in Japan's space-based communications infrastructure.

## Key Facts
- **Classification:** BSAT-2a is an instance of a communications satellite.
- **Launch Date:** The satellite was launched on March 8, 2001.
- **Launch Vehicle:** It was deployed using an Ariane 5G rocket.
- **Launch Site:** The launch originated from ELA-3 (Ensemble de Lancement Ariane 3).
- **Orbit:** The satellite operates from a geostationary orbit.
- **COSPAR ID:** Its international designator is 2001-011B.
- **Satellite Catalog Number:** It is tracked under SCN 26720.
- **Nationality:** The satellite is of Japanese origin.

## FAQs
### Q: When was BSAT-2a launched?
A: BSAT-2a was successfully launched on March 8, 2001.

### Q: What rocket was used to deploy BSAT-2a?
A: The satellite was launched aboard an Ariane 5G, a European heavy-lift launch vehicle.

### Q: Where is the satellite located?
A: BSAT-2a operates in a geostationary orbit, which allows it to maintain a fixed position relative to the Earth's surface for telecommunications purposes.

### Q: What is the primary function of BSAT-2a?
A: As a communications satellite, BSAT-2a is designed to facilitate artificial satellite-based telecommunications.

## Why It Matters
BSAT-2a represents a specific class of geostationary satellites essential for modern telecommunications infrastructure. By occupying a geostationary orbit, the satellite provides a stable platform for relaying signals, which is critical for broadcasting and communication services that require consistent coverage over a specific geographical region—in this case, Japan. The deployment of BSAT-2a highlights the international nature of the space industry, utilizing a European launch vehicle (the Ariane 5G) from the ELA-3 complex to deploy a Japanese asset.

The satellite's launch in 2001 places it within the era of rapid expansion in global satellite communications, serving as a functional node in the network of spacecraft that enable high-speed data and video transmission. Its identification via standard tracking protocols (COSPAR ID 2001-011B and SCN 26720) underscores its recognized status in the global registry of space objects, ensuring it is distinguishable from other debris and assets in the increasingly crowded orbital environment.

## Notable For
- Being a specialized **communications satellite** serving Japan.
- Launching aboard the **Ariane 5G**, a prominent European launch vehicle.
- Operating in **geostationary orbit**, a prime orbital slot for communications.
- Being launched from **ELA-3**, a major launch pad often used for Ariane rockets.
- Having a distinct **COSPAR ID (2001-011B)** used for international tracking.

## Body

### Mission and Classification
BSAT-2a is classified as a communications satellite, a type of artificial satellite specifically designed to receive and transmit communication signals. The entity is distinctly Japanese, serving the telecommunications needs of the region. It functions as a satellite of the Earth, maintaining a specific position in orbit to facilitate signal consistency.

### Launch and Deployment
The satellite's journey to space was marked by a significant event classified as a rocket launch. This operation took place on **March 8, 2001**.

- **Launch Vehicle:** The mission utilized the **Ariane 5G**, a European launch vehicle known for its heavy-lift capabilities.
- **Location:** The launch was executed from **ELA-3** (Ensemble de Lancement Ariane 3), a launch facility associated with the Ariane program.

### Orbital Technical Specifications
To facilitate its role in telecommunications, BSAT-2a was placed into a specific orbital regime:
- **Orbit Type:** The satellite resides in a **geostationary orbit**. This allows the satellite to match the Earth's rotation, appearing stationary over a fixed point on the globe.
- **Identifiers:** The satellite is tracked internationally using the **COSPAR ID 2001-011B** and the Satellite Catalog Number (SCN) **26720**. These identifiers are essential for space traffic management and tracking.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report