# Ekspress AM4R

> Russian communications satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q16894817](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q16894817)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ekspress-AM4R)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/ekspress-am4r

## Summary
Ekspress AM4R is a Russian communications satellite designed to operate in geostationary orbit. Manufactured by Airbus Defence and Space for the Russian Satellite Communications Company, it was launched on May 15, 2014, aboard a Proton-M rocket. The satellite utilizes a Briz-M space tug to reach its intended orbital position.

## Key Facts
- **Entity Type:** Communications satellite.
- **Operator:** Russian Satellite Communications Company.
- **Manufacturer:** Airbus Defence and Space.
- **Launch Date:** May 15, 2014.
- **Launch Vehicle:** Proton-M (Russian heavy lift launch vehicle).
- **Launch Site:** Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 200.
- **Orbit Type:** Geostationary orbit.
- **Upper Stage:** Briz-M space tug.
- **Wikipedia Title:** Ekspress-AM4R.

## FAQs
### Q: Who built and operates the Ekspress AM4R satellite?
A: The satellite was manufactured by Airbus Defence and Space and is operated by the Russian Satellite Communications Company.

### Q: When was Ekspress AM4R launched?
A: Ekspress AM4R was launched on May 15, 2014.

### Q: What rocket was used to launch Ekspress AM4R?
A: The satellite was launched using a Proton-M rocket, a Russian heavy lift launch vehicle, equipped with a Briz-M space tug.

## Why It Matters
Ekspress AM4R represents a significant collaboration between European manufacturing and Russian space operations, embodying the integration of distinct aerospace technologies. As a communications satellite intended for geostationary orbit, it was designed to play a critical role in providing telecommunications services across Russia. The project highlights the reliance of Russian infrastructure on the Proton-M heavy-lift vehicle, a staple of the Soviet and Russian space programs. By utilizing the Briz-M upper stage, the mission demonstrates the specific technical requirements for inserting heavy payloads into precise geostationary positions. The involvement of Airbus Defence and Space underscores the global nature of the satellite manufacturing industry, where major operators often procure hardware from international contractors to meet capacity demands.

## Notable For
- Being a telecommunications platform manufactured by Airbus Defence and Space for the Russian market.
- Utilizing the Proton-M heavy-lift launch vehicle.
- Launching from the historic Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 200.
- Incorporating the Briz-M space tug for orbital insertion.
- Operating under the Russian Satellite Communications Company, a major state operator.

## Body

### Mission Overview
Ekspress AM4R is classified as an artificial satellite designed specifically for telecommunications. Its primary function is to serve as a communications node in space, facilitating signal transmission for the Russian Satellite Communications Company. As an instance of a communications satellite, it falls under the broader category of space infrastructure used to relay data, voice, and video signals.

### Manufacturing and Development
The satellite was constructed by Airbus Defence and Space, a leading European aerospace manufacturer. This partnership highlights the cross-border nature of heavy satellite construction. The specific model was designed to withstand the rigors of launch and the harsh environment of geostationary orbit to ensure longevity and reliability for the operator.

### Launch Logistics
The launch took place on May 15, 2014, marking a specific milestone in the timeline of the Ekspress series. The mission originated from the Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 200, a primary launch facility used for the Proton family of rockets.

### Technical Specifications
To achieve its designated orbit, Ekspress AM4R was mounted atop a Proton-M launch vehicle. This Russian heavy lift rocket is part of the broader Proton family of launch vehicles, which has origins in the Soviet era. To facilitate the final delivery of the satellite into its correct orbital trajectory, the launch configuration included a Briz-M space tug. This upper stage is critical for the complex maneuvers required to reach geostationary orbit from a ground-based launch.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report