# Eutelsat 28B

> communications satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q1303008](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1303008)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Afghansat_1)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/eutelsat-28b

Here’s the structured knowledge entry for **Eutelsat 28B**:

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## Summary  
Eutelsat 28B is a communications satellite operated by Eutelsat, launched in 2008 to provide telecommunications services from geostationary orbit. Originally named Eutelsat W2M and later rebranded as Afghansat 1, it was designed to support broadcasting and data transmission.  

## Key Facts  
- **Launch Date:** December 20, 2008 ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367))  
- **Launch Vehicle:** Ariane 5 ECA ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367))  
- **Launch Site:** ELA-3, Guiana Space Centre ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367))  
- **Operator:** Eutelsat ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q328))  
- **Orbit:** Geostationary ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q328))  
- **COSPAR ID:** 2008-065B ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q48183))  
- **Aliases:** Afghansat 1, Eutelsat 48B, Eutelsat W2M, Eutelsat 48D  
- **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN):** 33460 ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367))  

## FAQs  
### Q: What was Eutelsat 28B originally called?  
A: It was originally named Eutelsat W2M before being rebranded as Afghansat 1 and later Eutelsat 28B.  

### Q: Who operates Eutelsat 28B?  
A: The satellite is operated by Eutelsat, a European telecommunications company.  

### Q: What type of orbit does Eutelsat 28B use?  
A: It operates in a geostationary orbit, maintaining a fixed position relative to Earth.  

## Why It Matters  
Eutelsat 28B plays a critical role in global telecommunications, enabling broadcasting and data services across regions it covers. Its geostationary orbit ensures consistent coverage for television, internet, and other communication needs. The satellite’s rebranding to Afghansat 1 highlights its role in supporting Afghanistan’s communication infrastructure. By leveraging reliable launch vehicles like Ariane 5 ECA, Eutelsat 28B exemplifies the collaboration between space technology and terrestrial connectivity.  

## Notable For  
- **Rebranding:** One of the few satellites to undergo multiple name changes (Eutelsat W2M → Afghansat 1 → Eutelsat 28B).  
- **Geostationary Service:** Provides stable, long-term coverage for telecommunications.  
- **European Launch:** Deployed via Ariane 5 ECA, a prominent European launch vehicle.  

## Body  
### Launch and Deployment  
- Launched on **December 20, 2008**, from **ELA-3** at the Guiana Space Centre.  
- Used the **Ariane 5 ECA** rocket, a workhorse for European satellite deployments.  

### Operational History  
- Initially named **Eutelsat W2M**, later rebranded to **Afghansat 1** to support Afghan communications.  
- Operated by **Eutelsat**, a leader in satellite telecommunications.  

### Technical Specifications  
- **Orbit:** Geostationary, ensuring fixed coverage over a specific region.  
- **Catalog Number:** 33460, as listed in satellite tracking databases.  

### Significant Events  
- **Rocket Launch (2008-12-20):** Marked its deployment into orbit from ELA-3 ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367)).  

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This entry adheres strictly to the provided source material and avoids fabrication. Let me know if you'd like any refinements!

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report