# Eutelsat 48A

> communications satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q1378822](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1378822)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/eutelsat-48a

## Summary
Eutelsat 48A is a retired communications satellite launched in 1996 as part of the Hot Bird fleet, designed to provide telecommunications services from the 13° East orbital position. Originally named Hot Bird 2, it operated under multiple aliases and was decommissioned in 2019 after exceeding its design life. It played a key role in broadcasting and telecommunications before being replaced by newer satellites.

## Key Facts
- **Launch Date**: November 21, 1996
- **Launch Vehicle**: Atlas II rocket
- **Aliases**: Eurobird 9, Hot Bird 2, Eutelsat W48, Hotbird 2
- **COSPAR ID**: 1996-067A
- **SCN**: 24665
- **Parent Class**: Hot Bird communications satellite fleet
- **Launch Site**: Cape Canaveral Launch Complex 36
- **Decommissioned**: 2019 (exceeded 12-year design life)

## FAQs
### Q: When was Eutelsat 48A launched?
A: Eutelsat 48A was launched on November 21, 1996, aboard an Atlas II rocket from Cape Canaveral.

### Q: What was the primary purpose of Eutelsat 48A?
A: It provided telecommunications services, including television broadcasting and data transmission, as part of the Hot Bird satellite fleet.

### Q: Is Eutelsat 48A still operational?
A: No, the satellite was decommissioned in 2019 after operating for over 23 years, far exceeding its original 12-year design life.

## Why It Matters
Eutelsat 48A was a critical component of the Hot Bird fleet, a group of satellites positioned at 13° East that have been central to broadcasting and telecommunications in Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. Launched in 1996, it supported television channels, radio stations, and broadband services during a period of rapid growth in global telecommunications. Its longevity—it operated for 23 years compared to a planned 12-year lifespan—demonstrated the reliability of satellite technology in maintaining consistent service. As one of the earliest Hot Bird satellites, it paved the way for modern high-capacity satellites, ensuring continuity of service during the transition to newer systems like Eutelsat 9B. Its deorbiting in 2019 marked the end of an era for first-generation Hot Bird satellites, highlighting the evolving demands of the telecommunications industry.

## Notable For
- Operated for 23 years, more than double its 12-year design life
- Launched as Hot Bird 2, later renamed Eutelsat 48A after being relocated to 48° East
- Part of the iconic Hot Bird fleet, a cornerstone of European broadcasting infrastructure
- Deployed via the Atlas II rocket, a workhorse of 1990s satellite launches

## Body
### Launch and Deployment
Eutelsat 48A was launched on November 21, 1996, at 20:48 UTC from Cape Canaveral Launch Complex 36 in Florida. The satellite was carried into orbit by an Atlas II expendable launch system, a rocket known for its reliability in deploying communications satellites during the 1990s.

### Technical Specifications
- **Design Life**: 12 years (exceeded by 11 years)
- **Orbital Position**: Initially operated at 13° East as Hot Bird 2; later moved to 48° East
- **Mass**: 2,500 kg (typical for Hot Bird-class satellites)

### Operational History
The satellite entered service shortly after launch, providing television broadcasting, radio, and telecommunications services. It underwent multiple name changes (Hot Bird 2 → Eurobird 9 → Eutelsat W48 → Eutelsat 48A) as it was repositioned to extend its operational life. By 2019, the satellite was decommissioned and moved to a graveyard orbit to comply with space debris mitigation guidelines.

### Naming and Identification
- **Aliases**: Hot Bird 2 (1996–2009), Eurobird 9 (2009–2012), Eutelsat W48 (2012–2014), Eutelsat 48A (2014–2019)
- **Tracking IDs**: COSPAR 1996-067A, SCN 24665
- **Wikidata Description**: "communications satellite"

### Legacy and Succession
Eutelsat 48A was succeeded by newer satellites like Eutelsat 9B, launched in 2016, which offered enhanced capacity and coverage. Its retirement reflected advancements in satellite technology, including improved propulsion systems and payload capabilities, enabling modern satellites to support 4K broadcasting, broadband internet, and mobile communications.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report