# Eutelsat Hot Bird 13D

> communications satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q1378812](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1378812)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eutelsat_33E)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/eutelsat-hot-bird-13d

## Summary
Eutelsat Hot Bird 13D is a communications satellite launched on February 12, 2009, to provide telecommunications services, including television broadcasting and data transmission. It operates from a geostationary orbit and has been repositioned multiple times during its operational lifespan, serving under several names such as Eutelsat 33E and Hot Bird 10. The satellite is part of Eutelsat's fleet, supporting media and telecom operations across Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East.

## Key Facts
- **Launch Date**: February 12, 2009.
- **Launch Vehicle**: Ariane 5 ECA rocket from the ELA-3 launch pad.
- **COSPAR ID**: 2009-008B.
- **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN)**: 33750.
- **Alternative Names**: Eutelsat 33E, Hot Bird 10, Atlantic Bird 4A, Eutelsat 3C.
- **Primary Function**: Telecommunications, including direct-to-home television and broadband services.
- **Orbital Position History**: Operated at 13° East, 3° East, and 33° East orbital slots during its lifespan.

## FAQs
### Q: When was Eutelsat Hot Bird 13D launched?
A: The satellite was launched on February 12, 2009, aboard an Ariane 5 ECA rocket from the ELA-3 launch site.

### Q: What is the purpose of Eutelsat Hot Bird 13D?
A: It provides telecommunications services, such as television broadcasting, broadband internet, and corporate networking, primarily to Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East.

### Q: Why has the satellite had multiple names?
A: The name changes reflect its repositioning to different orbital slots over time (e.g., Hot Bird 10 at 13° East, Eutelsat 33E at 33° East), indicating its adaptability for varying service regions.

## Why It Matters
Eutelsat Hot Bird 13D plays a critical role in global telecommunications infrastructure, enabling broadcast media distribution and connectivity services across three continents. Its ability to operate in multiple orbital positions highlights its flexibility in meeting evolving market demands. As part of Eutelsat’s satellite constellation, it contributes to the reliability of television broadcasting and telecommunications networks, supporting both public and private sector operations. Its longevity since 2009 underscores its durability and the strategic importance of geostationary satellites in maintaining uninterrupted global communication services.

## Notable For
- **Versatility**: Operated in multiple orbital positions (13°, 3°, and 33° East), demonstrating adaptability to changing service needs.
- **Launch Heritage**: Deployed via the Ariane 5 ECA, a high-reliability European launch vehicle.
- **Long Operational Lifespan**: Provided continuous service for over 15 years, exceeding typical satellite design lifetimes.
- **Broadcasting Significance**: Key platform for delivering hundreds of television channels to Europe and adjacent regions.

## Body
### Launch Details
- **Date**: February 12, 2009.
- **Rocket**: Ariane 5 ECA (Flight V187).
- **Launch Site**: ELA-3, Guiana Space Centre, French Guiana.
- **Payload**: Part of a dual-satellite launch with W2M.

### Technical Specifications
- **Satellite Bus**: Eurostar E3000 platform.
- **Mass**: Approximately 5,400 kg at launch.
- **Propulsion**: Chemical propulsion for orbital maneuvering.
- **Payload**: 45 Ku-band transponders for telecommunications services.

### Operational History
- **2009–2011**: Operated as Hot Bird 10 at 13° East, broadcasting television channels.
- **2011–2014**: Renamed Eutelsat 3C and relocated to 3° East to support services in Eastern Europe and Africa.
- **2014–2021**: Repositioned to 33° East as Eutelsat 33E, focusing on maritime and land mobility services.
- **2021–Present**: Designated Hot Bird 13D, returning to 13° East as part of Eutelsat’s Hot Bird fleet renewal.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report