# BSAT-4a

> geosynchronous telecommunications satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q25419220](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q25419220)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BSAT-4a)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/bsat-4a

## Summary
BSAT-4a is a geosynchronous telecommunications satellite operated by the Broadcasting Satellite System Corporation of Japan. Launched on September 29, 2017, the artificial satellite was manufactured by Lanteris Space Systems and deployed into geostationary orbit to support communications infrastructure.

## Key Facts
- **Classifications:** Artificial satellite, Communications satellite, Geosynchronous satellite.
- **Operator:** Broadcasting Satellite System Corporation.
- **Country:** Japan.
- **Launch Date:** September 29, 2017.
- **Launch Vehicle:** Ariane 5 ECA.
- **Launch Site:** ELA-3.
- **Mass:** 3,520 kilograms.
- **Manufacturer:** Lanteris Space Systems.
- **COSPAR ID:** 2017-059B.
- **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN):** 42951.
- **Successor:** BSAT-4b.

## FAQs
### Q: Who manufactured and operates BSAT-4a?
A: BSAT-4a was manufactured by Lanteris Space Systems and is operated by the Broadcasting Satellite System Corporation.

### Q: When and how was BSAT-4a launched?
A: The satellite was launched on September 29, 2017, aboard an Ariane 5 ECA launch vehicle from the ELA-3 launch pad.

### Q: What type of orbit does BSAT-4a occupy?
A: BSAT-4a is positioned in a geostationary orbit, which is a specific type of geosynchronous orbit that allows the satellite to maintain a fixed position relative to the Earth's surface.

## Why It Matters
BSAT-4a serves as a critical piece of space infrastructure for Japan's telecommunications capabilities. As a geosynchronous satellite weighing over 3.5 tons, it represents a significant investment in maintaining and expanding broadcasting services for the region. The satellite functions as a relay station in space, facilitating high-bandwidth communications that require a stable platform in the sky.

The project highlights international collaboration in the space industry; although the satellite serves Japan and was built by Lanteris Space Systems, it was launched aboard a European Ariane 5 ECA rocket. The deployment of BSAT-4a, and its subsequent successor BSAT-4b, ensures the continuity of service for the Broadcasting Satellite System Corporation, mitigating risks associated with aging satellite fleets. Its placement in geostationary orbit allows for consistent coverage angles for ground-based receivers, which is essential for direct-to-home broadcasting services. By providing dedicated telecommunications resources, BSAT-4a plays a vital role in the daily consumption of media and data transmission within its coverage zone.

## Notable For
- Being a high-mass geosynchronous satellite (3,520 kg).
- Serving as a specific instance of a "rocket launch" event in 2017.
- Operating within the BSAT (Broadcasting Satellite) series, succeeded by BSAT-4b.
- Utilizing the Ariane 5 ECA heavy-lift launch vehicle.
- Maintaining a geostationary orbit relative to the Earth.

## Body
### Technical Specifications
BSAT-4a is classified as an artificial satellite designed specifically for telecommunications. It has a documented mass of 3,520 kilograms. The satellite is identified by the COSPAR ID 2017-059B and the Satellite Catalog Number 42951. It is also known by the alias "BSAT 4a."

### Ownership and Operation
The satellite falls under the jurisdiction of Japan. It is operated by the Broadcasting Satellite System Corporation. The manufacturing contract was fulfilled by Lanteris Space Systems.

### Launch and Deployment
The significant event of the rocket launch occurred on September 29, 2017. The launch utilized the Ariane 5 ECA vehicle, a European launch vehicle, lifting off from the ELA-3 (Ensemble de Lancement Ariane-3) site. This launch successfully placed the satellite into its intended orbital path.

### Orbital Characteristics
BSAT-4a functions as a satellite of Earth, specifically positioned in a geostationary orbit. This orbit is a subset of geosynchronous orbit, ensuring the satellite remains fixed over a specific longitude. It is part of the broader class of communications satellites that provide vital data links.

## Schema Markup
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## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report