# GE 1A
**Wikidata**: [Q16061261](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q16061261)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/ge-1a

## Summary  
GE 1A (also known as GE‑1A, AAP‑1, or Worldsat 1) is a Russian‑launched communications satellite. It was placed into orbit on 1 October 2000 using a Proton‑K rocket from Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 81/23 and later succeeded by the satellite SES‑9.

## Key Facts  
- **Launch date:** 1 October 2000【source】  
- **Launch vehicle:** Proton‑K rocket【source】  
- **Launch site:** Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 81/23, Kazakhstan【source】  
- **Satellite class:** Communications satellite【source】  
- **COSPAR ID:** 2000‑059A【source】  
- **Space tug used:** Blok DM‑2M【source】  
- **Alternate names:** GE‑1A, AAP‑1, Worldsat 1【source】  
- **SCN (Space Catalog Number):** 26554【source】  
- **Replaced by:** SES‑9 (successor satellite)【source】  
- **Wikipedia language editions:** German (de) and Portuguese (pt)【source】

## FAQs  
### Q: When was GE 1A launched?  
**A:** GE 1A was launched on 1 October 2000.  

### Q: What type of satellite is GE 1A?  
**A:** GE 1A is classified as a communications satellite, designed for telecommunications services.  

### Q: Which rocket carried GE 1A into orbit?  
**A:** The satellite was launched aboard a Russian Proton‑K carrier rocket.  

### Q: What was the launch site for GE 1A?  
**A:** It lifted off from Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 81/23 in Kazakhstan.  

### Q: Which satellite replaced GE 1A?  
**A:** The satellite SES‑9 succeeded GE 1A in its operational role.  

## Why It Matters  
GE 1A represents a key component of the early‑2000s global communications infrastructure, extending the reach of telecommunication services across continents. Launched from the historic Baikonur Cosmodrome using the proven Proton‑K launch system, the satellite leveraged the Blok DM‑2M space tug to achieve its final orbit, showcasing the modular approach to satellite deployment. Its operation under multiple aliases—GE‑1A, AAP‑1, Worldsat 1—reflects its role in various commercial and regional broadcasting initiatives. By later being succeeded by SES‑9, GE 1A illustrates the lifecycle of satellite assets, where newer technology supersedes older platforms to maintain service quality and capacity. Understanding GE 1A’s specifications, launch context, and operational timeline provides insight into the evolution of satellite communications, the strategic use of Russian launch capabilities, and the broader dynamics of satellite fleet management.  

## Notable For  
- First launch of the GE 1A series on a Proton‑K vehicle.  
- Utilization of the Blok DM‑2M space tug for orbital insertion.  
- Assignment of the COSPAR identifier 2000‑059A, linking it to the 2000 launch batch.  
- Serving as a predecessor to the modern SES‑9 communications satellite.  
- Recognized under three distinct names across different markets and languages.  

## Body  

### Overview  
- GE 1A is a communications satellite built for telecommunications.  
- It is cataloged under SCN 26554 and COSPAR ID 2000‑059A.  

### Launch Details  
- **Date:** 1 October 2000.  
- **Vehicle:** Proton‑K, a heavy‑lift Russian carrier rocket.  
- **Site:** Baikonur Cosmodrome Site 81/23, a primary launch complex for Russian missions.  
- **Space tug:** Blok DM‑2M was employed to maneuver the satellite to its intended orbit.  

### Technical Identifiers  
- **Instance of:** Communications satellite (per Wikidata classification).  
- **Aliases:** GE‑1A, AAP‑1, Worldsat 1.  
- **Sitelink count:** 2 Wikipedia entries (German and Portuguese).  

### Operational History  
- After launch, GE 1A entered service as part of the global communications network.  
- It remained operational until it was superseded by the newer satellite SES‑9.  

### Replacement and Legacy  
- **Replaced by:** SES‑9, indicating a planned upgrade path for the service it provided.  
- The satellite’s launch and operation illustrate the collaboration between Russian launch infrastructure and international telecommunications providers.  

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*All statements are derived from the provided source material.*

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report