# Ekspress AM8

> Russian communications satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q14131609](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q14131609)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ekspress_AM8)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/ekspress-am8

## Summary
Ekspress AM8 is a Russian communications satellite launched on September 14, 2015, as part of the Ekspress series. It operates in geostationary orbit and is designed for telecommunications, providing critical satellite communication services. The satellite was built by JSC Information Satellite Systems Reshetnev and operated by Russian Satellite Communications Company.

## Key Facts
- **Class**: Communications satellite and geostationary satellite
- **Mass**: 2,100 kilograms
- **Launch Date**: September 14, 2015
- **Launch Vehicle**: Proton-M
- **Launch Site**: Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 81/24
- **Space Tug**: Blok DM-03
- **Power Source**: Spacecraft solar array with a capacity of 5,900 watts
- **Manufacturer**: JSC Information Satellite Systems Reshetnev
- **Operator**: Russian Satellite Communications Company
- **Spacecraft Bus**: Ekspress-1000NTB
- **Orbit**: Geostationary orbit
- **Country of Origin**: Russia

## FAQs
### Q: What type of satellite is Ekspress AM8?
A: Ekspress AM8 is a communications satellite designed for telecommunications, operating in geostationary orbit.

### Q: When was Ekspress AM8 launched?
A: Ekspress AM8 was launched on September 14, 2015, using a Proton-M rocket from Baikonur Cosmodrome.

### Q: Who operates Ekspress AM8?
A: Ekspress AM8 is operated by Russian Satellite Communications Company.

### Q: What is the power source of Ekspress AM8?
A: The satellite is powered by a spacecraft solar array with a capacity of 5,900 watts.

### Q: What is the spacecraft bus of Ekspress AM8?
A: Ekspress AM8 uses the Ekspress-1000NTB spacecraft bus.

## Why It Matters
Ekspress AM8 is part of Russia's Ekspress satellite constellation, which provides critical telecommunications services, including television broadcasting, internet access, and secure communications. As a geostationary satellite, it offers continuous coverage over a specific region, supporting both civilian and military applications. The satellite's launch and operation contribute to Russia's space infrastructure, ensuring reliable communication links for various sectors. Its successful deployment highlights advancements in Russian space technology and satellite manufacturing.

## Notable For
- **Geostationary Operation**: Maintains a fixed position in geostationary orbit for continuous coverage.
- **Telecommunications Role**: Supports television broadcasting, internet access, and secure communications.
- **Proton-M Launch**: Successfully launched aboard a Proton-M rocket, demonstrating reliability in heavy-lift launches.
- **Solar Powered**: Equipped with a spacecraft solar array providing 5,900 watts of power.
- **Ekspress Series**: Part of the Ekspress satellite family, known for its robust design and long operational lifespan.

## Body
### Overview
Ekspress AM8 is a Russian communications satellite launched on September 14, 2015, as part of the Ekspress series. It operates in geostationary orbit, providing telecommunications services including television broadcasting, internet access, and secure communications. The satellite was built by JSC Information Satellite Systems Reshetnev and is operated by Russian Satellite Communications Company.

### Technical Specifications
- **Mass**: 2,100 kilograms
- **Power Source**: Spacecraft solar array with a capacity of 5,900 watts
- **Spacecraft Bus**: Ekspress-1000NTB
- **Orbit**: Geostationary orbit

### Launch Details
- **Launch Vehicle**: Proton-M
- **Launch Site**: Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 81/24
- **Space Tug**: Blok DM-03

### Operational Details
- **Operator**: Russian Satellite Communications Company
- **Country of Origin**: Russia

### Significance
Ekspress AM8 plays a crucial role in Russia's space infrastructure, supporting various communication needs. Its successful deployment and operation contribute to the country's technological advancements in satellite communications. The satellite's geostationary position ensures continuous coverage, making it a vital asset for both civilian and military applications.

## References

1. [Source](https://space.skyrocket.de/doc_sdat/ekspress-am-8.htm)
2. Jonathan's Space Report