# Intelsat 31
**Wikidata**: [Q18465828](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q18465828)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/intelsat-31

## Summary
Intelsat 31 is a communications satellite and artificial satellite of the Earth launched on June 9, 2016. It operates in a geostationary orbit to provide telecommunications services and is also known by the alias DLA-2.

## Key Facts
- **Launch Date:** June 9, 2016
- **Launch Vehicle:** Proton-M, a Russian heavy lift launch vehicle
- **Space Tug:** Briz-M
- **Orbit Type:** Geostationary orbit
- **Alternative Name:** DLA-2
- **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN):** 41581
- **COSPAR ID:** 2016-035A
- **Classifications:** Communications satellite; artificial satellite of the Earth

## FAQs
### Q: What is Intelsat 31?
A: Intelsat 31 is an artificial communications satellite designed for telecommunications. It was launched in 2016 and is positioned in a geostationary orbit around the Earth.

### Q: What rocket was used to launch Intelsat 31?
A: The satellite was launched using a Proton-M, which is a Russian heavy lift launch vehicle. The mission also utilized a Briz-M space tug to assist in reaching its intended orbit.

### Q: Does Intelsat 31 have other names?
A: Yes, Intelsat 31 is also known by the alias DLA-2. In technical databases, it is identified by the SCN 41581 and the COSPAR ID 2016-035A.

### Q: Where is Intelsat 31 located?
A: Intelsat 31 is located in a geostationary orbit. This specific type of orbit allows the satellite to remain at a fixed point relative to the Earth's surface, which is essential for its role as a communications satellite.

## Why It Matters
Intelsat 31 is a significant component of global telecommunications infrastructure. As a communications satellite in geostationary orbit, it facilitates the transmission of data and signals necessary for modern telecommunications. Its successful deployment on June 9, 2016, utilized the Proton-M heavy lift vehicle, highlighting the continued role of the Russian Proton rocket family in international space logistics. 

By operating under the designation DLA-2, it serves specific roles within the broader class of artificial satellites orbiting the Earth. Its technical identifiers, such as SCN 41581, allow for precise tracking and management within the global network of spacecraft. The satellite contributes to the connectivity required for various Earth-based communication services, maintaining a stable presence in space to ensure consistent signal delivery.

## Notable For
- **Heavy Lift Launch:** Deployed using the Proton-M, a specialized Russian heavy lift launch vehicle.
- **Orbital Positioning:** Utilizes a Briz-M space tug for precise maneuvering during its deployment phase.
- **Dual Identity:** Recognized in the industry by both its primary name, Intelsat 31, and its alias, DLA-2.
- **Geostationary Operation:** Functions as a fixed-point communications hub relative to the Earth's surface.

## Body

### Launch and Deployment
Intelsat 31 was launched on June 9, 2016. The launch was conducted using a Proton-M rocket, a member of the Soviet/Russian Proton family of launch vehicles. To facilitate its arrival into the correct orbital path, the mission employed a Briz-M space tug.

### Technical Specifications and Identifiers
The satellite is categorized as both a communications satellite and an artificial satellite of the Earth. It is tracked and cataloged using several international identification systems:
*   **SCN:** 41581
*   **COSPAR ID:** 2016-035A
*   **Google Knowledge Graph ID:** /g/12pgcywz4
*   **Wolfram Language Entity Code:** Entity["Satellite", "41581"]

### Orbital Characteristics
Intelsat 31 is a satellite of the geostationary orbit. This orbit is standard for telecommunications satellites, as it allows the spacecraft to match the Earth's rotation, effectively hovering over a specific longitudinal point to provide continuous service to a designated region.

### Documentation and Language Support
Information regarding Intelsat 31 is documented across various international platforms. It currently has dedicated entries in four Wikipedia language editions: German (de), Latvian (lv), Portuguese (pt), and Russian (ru).

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report