# Express AM44

> Russian communications satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q2739441](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q2739441)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ekspress-AM44)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/express-am44

## Summary
Express AM44 is a Russian communications satellite launched in 2009 to provide telecommunications services from geostationary orbit. It was deployed using a Proton-M rocket with a Briz-M space tug, marking a key addition to Russia's satellite infrastructure. The satellite operates under the designations Ekspress-AM44 and COSPAR ID 2009-007A.

## Key Facts
- **Launch Date**: February 11, 2009
- **Launch Vehicle**: Proton-M rocket with Briz-M space tug
- **Launch Site**: Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 200
- **Orbit**: Geostationary
- **COSPAR ID**: 2009-007A
- **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN)**: 33595
- **Aliases**: Ekspress-AM44, Экспресс-АМ44, Экспресс АМ44
- **Primary Function**: Telecommunications relay

## FAQs
### Q: When was Express AM44 launched?
A: Express AM44 was launched on February 11, 2009, from Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 200 aboard a Proton-M rocket.

### Q: What type of orbit does Express AM44 use?
A: The satellite operates in geostationary orbit, a common position for communications satellites to provide continuous coverage of specific regions.

### Q: What rocket was used to launch Express AM44?
A: The launch vehicle was a Proton-M, a Russian heavy-lift rocket, paired with a Briz-M space tug for orbital insertion.

## Why It Matters
Express AM44 plays a critical role in Russia's telecommunications network, enabling television broadcasting, internet connectivity, and other communication services across the country and neighboring regions. As part of the Express satellite series, it contributes to the redundancy and reliability of Russia's space-based infrastructure. The use of the Proton-M rocket highlights Russia's capabilities in deploying large payloads to geostationary orbit, underscoring the nation's strategic investment in space technology. This satellite supports both civilian and potentially governmental communications needs, ensuring connectivity in remote or underserved areas.

## Notable For
- **Geostationary Operations**: Provides fixed-position coverage for consistent telecommunications services.
- **Proton-M Launch**: Demonstrates the rocket's reliability for high-priority satellite deployments.
- **Briz-M Space Tug**: Utilizes a propulsion module for precise orbital placement.
- **Russian Infrastructure**: Strengthens domestic and international communication networks.

## Body
### Launch Details
- **Date**: February 11, 2009
- **Site**: Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 200 (Kazakhstan)
- **Rocket**: Proton-M (launch vehicle) with Briz-M (space tug)
- **Mission**: Deployment to geostationary orbit for telecommunications services

### Technical Specifications
- **COSPAR ID**: 2009-007A
- **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN)**: 33595
- **Aliases**: Ekspress-AM44, Экспресс-АМ44 (Russian designation)
- **Orbit Type**: Geostationary (fixed longitude over the equator)

### Mission Purpose
Express AM44 was designed to relay telecommunications signals, supporting services such as:
- Television broadcasting
- Mobile communications
- Broadband internet
- Government and emergency communications

### Background
- **Series**: Part of Russia's Express satellite fleet, which includes multiple generations of communications satellites.
- **Launch Provider**: Utilized the Proton-M, a workhorse rocket for Russian space missions, paired with the Briz-M upper stage for orbital adjustments.
- **Significance**: Enhances Russia's strategic communication capabilities and contributes to the country's presence in global satellite operations.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report