# Eutelsat 33F

> communications satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q497281](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q497281)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hot_Bird_13B)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/eutelsat-33f

## Summary
Eutelsat 33F, also known as Hot Bird 13B, is a communications satellite operated by Eutelsat, launched on August 4, 2006, to provide telecommunications services. It was deployed using a Proton-M rocket with a Briz-M upper stage from the Baikonur Cosmodrome. The satellite plays a key role in broadcasting and broadband coverage across Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East.

## Key Facts
- **Launch Date**: August 4, 2006
- **Operator**: Eutelsat
- **Launch Vehicle**: Proton-M rocket with Briz-M upper stage
- **COSPAR ID**: 2006-032A
- **Alternate Names**: Hot Bird 8, Hot Bird 13B, Hotbird 8
- **SCN**: 29270
- **Launch Site**: Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 200
- **Primary Function**: Telecommunications, broadcasting, and broadband services

## FAQs
### Q: When was Eutelsat 33F launched?
A: Eutelsat 33F was launched on August 4, 2006, aboard a Proton-M rocket from the Baikonur Cosmodrome.

### Q: What is Eutelsat 33F used for?
A: The satellite provides telecommunications services, including television broadcasting and broadband internet, primarily covering Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East.

### Q: Why is it called Hot Bird 13B?
A: "Hot Bird" refers to Eutelsat's fleet of satellites positioned at 13° East longitude, a key orbital slot for broadcasting. The "13B" designation indicates its role within this constellation.

## Why It Matters
Eutelsat 33F is significant as part of Eutelsat’s Hot Bird fleet, which serves as a critical infrastructure for broadcasting and telecommunications in Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. Its launch reinforced Eutelsat’s position as a major satellite operator, enabling high-capacity services such as direct-to-home television, radio, and broadband connectivity. By leveraging the Proton-M rocket, the mission demonstrated international collaboration in space technology, combining Russian launch capabilities with European operational expertise. The satellite’s deployment at 13° East—a highly strategic orbital position—ensures reliable coverage for densely populated regions, supporting both commercial and public service broadcasting needs.

## Notable For
- **Multi-Name Designation**: Known by multiple aliases (Hot Bird 8, Hot Bird 13B) reflecting its role in Eutelsat’s evolving fleet structure.
- **Proton-M Launch**: Utilized Russia’s Proton-M rocket with a Briz-M upper stage, highlighting cross-border cooperation in space launches.
- **Strategic Orbital Position**: Operates at 13° East, a prime location for broadcasting services across three continents.
- **Long-Term Operation**: Designed for extended service life, contributing to sustained telecommunications infrastructure.

## Body
### Launch Details
- **Date**: August 4, 2006
- **Rocket**: Proton-M (launch vehicle) with Briz-M (space tug)
- **Launch Site**: Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 200 (Kazakhstan)
- **Mission**: Deployed to geostationary orbit to serve Eutelsat’s Hot Bird fleet.

### Satellite Specifications
- **SCN**: 29270
- **COSPAR ID**: 2006-032A
- **Operator**: Eutelsat (references: Q328)
- **Primary Use**: Telecommunications, broadcasting, and broadband services.

### Operational History
- **Initial Name**: Launched as Hot Bird 8, later renamed Hot Bird 13B and Eutelsat 33F.
- **Coverage**: Provides services to Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East from 13° East longitude.
- **Legacy**: Part of Eutelsat’s fleet modernization, enhancing capacity and signal quality for regional users.

### Naming History
- **Aliases**: Hot Bird 8, Hot Bird 13B, Hotbird 8, Eutelsat Hot Bird 13B.
- **Rebranding**: Reflects Eutelsat’s practice of renaming satellites based on orbital position and operational role.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report