# Inmarsat-4A F4

> geostationary communications satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q1028735](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1028735)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inmarsat-4A_F4)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/inmarsat-4a-f4

## Summary  
Inmarsat-4A F4, also known as Alphasat, is a geostationary communications satellite launched on July 25, 2013, to provide global telecommunications services. Operated by Inmarsat and the European Space Agency (ESA), it supports broadband, voice, and data services worldwide.  

## Key Facts  
- **Launch Date**: July 25, 2013, at 19:54:07 UTC.  
- **Operators**: Inmarsat and the European Space Agency (ESA).  
- **Manufacturer**: Thales Alenia Space and Space Systems.  
- **Mass**: 6,649 kg (launch weight).  
- **Launch Vehicle**: Ariane 5 ECA (flight VA214) from ELA-3.  
- **Design Life**: 15 years.  
- **Identifiers**: COSPAR ID 2013-038A, SCN 39215.  
- **Spacecraft Bus**: Alphabus platform.  

## FAQs  
### Q: When was Inmarsat-4A F4 launched?  
A: It was launched on July 25, 2013, aboard an Ariane 5 ECA rocket from the ELA-3 launch pad.  

### Q: What is the primary purpose of Inmarsat-4A F4?  
A: The satellite provides global telecommunications services, including broadband internet, voice communication, and data transmission.  

### Q: Who manufactured and operates the satellite?  
A: It was built by Thales Alenia Space and Space Systems, and is operated jointly by Inmarsat and the European Space Agency (ESA).  

## Why It Matters  
Inmarsat-4A F4 plays a critical role in global telecommunications infrastructure, enabling reliable connectivity for maritime, aviation, and remote area communications. As the first satellite based on the Alphabus platform, it demonstrates advanced European space technology and serves as a cornerstone for Inmarsat’s high-capacity network. Its 15-year design life and geostationary orbit ensure continuous coverage, supporting economic and safety-critical operations worldwide.  

## Notable For  
- First satellite to use the Alphabus spacecraft bus, a joint ESA/European industry project.  
- Equipped with a 12-meter deployable antenna and advanced propulsion systems (PPS-1350 and apogee kick motor).  
- Part of Inmarsat’s fourth-generation fleet, expanding global broadband capabilities.  
- Collaboration between Inmarsat and ESA to test new satellite technologies.  

## Body  
### Launch and Deployment  
Inmarsat-4A F4 launched on July 25, 2013, at 19:54:07 UTC aboard an Ariane 5 ECA rocket (flight VA214) from the ELA-3 pad in Kourou, French Guiana. It was deployed into geostationary orbit using an ESC-A H14.4 space tug and an apogee kick motor.  

### Design and Operations  
- **Spacecraft Bus**: Built on the Alphabus platform, designed for high-power telecommunications missions.  
- **Solar Arrays**: Two 12-meter deployable solar arrays generating power for its systems.  
- **Propulsion**: PPS-1350 bipropellant thrusters and an apogee kick motor for orbit adjustments.  
- **Antenna**: Large 12-meter reflector for high-gain signal transmission.  

### Mission and Capabilities  
The satellite operates from geostationary orbit, providing global coverage for Inmarsat’s L-band services, including voice, data, and broadband connectivity. Its 15-year design life ensures long-term reliability for maritime, aviation, and government users.  

### Collaboration and Technology  
A joint effort between Inmarsat and the ESA, the satellite tested advanced technologies like the Alphabus bus and large deployable antennas. It serves as a technology demonstrator while fulfilling commercial operational roles.  

### Identification and Tracking  
- **COSPAR ID**: 2013-038A  
- **SCN**: 39215  
- **NSSDCA ID**: 2013-038A  

### Legacy  
As the first Alphabus satellite, Inmarsat-4A F4 paved the way for future European telecommunications missions, combining cutting-edge technology with robust operational capabilities.

## References

1. [Source](https://space.skyrocket.de/doc_sdat/alphasat.htm)
2. Jonathan's Space Report