# MEASAT-1

> Malaysian communications satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q16943274](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q16943274)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/measat-1

## Summary
MEASAT-1 is Malaysia's first communications satellite, launched on January 12, 1996 to provide telecommunications services across Southeast Asia. This geostationary satellite was part of Malaysia's initial entry into the space-based communications sector.

## Key Facts
- MEASAT-1 is a Malaysian communications satellite launched on January 12, 1996 at 23:10:00 from ELA-2
- The satellite has a mass of 1450 kg and operates in geostationary orbit
- It was manufactured by Hughes Aircraft Company using a Boeing 376 spacecraft bus
- MEASAT-1 was launched using an Ariane 44L rocket (V-82) and is powered by spacecraft solar arrays and nickel-hydrogen batteries
- The satellite is operated by MEASAT Satellite Systems and has alternative designations as AFRICASAT-1 and Africasat 1
- MEASAT-1 was succeeded by MEASAT-2 as part of Malaysia's satellite communications network
- It has a COSPAR ID of 1996-002B and NSSDCA ID of 1996-002B

## FAQs
### Q: What is MEASAT-1?
A: MEASAT-1 is Malaysia's first communications satellite launched in 1996 to provide telecommunications services including television broadcasting, telephone services, and data communications across Southeast Asia.

### Q: When was MEASAT-1 launched and by what rocket?
A: MEASAT-1 was launched on January 12, 1996 at 23:10:00 from ELA-2 using an Ariane 44L rocket (V-82).

### Q: What technical specifications define MEASAT-1?
A: MEASAT-1 has a mass of 1450 kg, utilizes a Boeing 376 spacecraft bus, and is powered by spacecraft solar arrays and nickel-hydrogen batteries. It operates in geostationary orbit to provide continuous coverage of its service area.

### Q: Who manufactured MEASAT-1 and what company operates it?
A: MEASAT-1 was manufactured by Hughes Aircraft Company and is operated by MEASAT Satellite Systems, which manages Malaysia's satellite communications infrastructure.

### Q: How does MEASAT-1 relate to other satellites in the MEASAT system?
A: MEASAT-1 was the first satellite in Malaysia's MEAT system and was later followed by MEASAT-2, expanding the country's telecommunications capabilities in space.

## Why It Matters
MEASAT-1 represents Malaysia's strategic entry into the space-based communications sector, providing essential telecommunications infrastructure for the country and surrounding regions. As Malaysia's first geostationary communications satellite, it enabled enhanced television broadcasting, telephone services, and data communications across Southeast Asia. The satellite's development and operation positioned Malaysia as a player in the global satellite industry and supported the country's technological advancement goals. MEASAT-1's successful operation paved the way for the MEASAT-2 satellite and subsequent expansion of Malaysia's space-based communications capabilities. The satellite's alternative designation as AFRICASAT-1 also indicates its broader regional service capability beyond Malaysia's borders, demonstrating the economic and social benefits of satellite communications in connecting remote areas and supporting development in the region.

## Notable For
- First communications satellite operated by Malaysia, establishing the country's presence in the satellite communications industry
- Alternative designation as AFRICASAT-1, indicating its broader regional service capabilities beyond Malaysia's borders
- Utilized a Boeing 376 spacecraft bus, a proven design for communications satellites
- Part of the early MEASAT satellite system that helped establish telecommunications infrastructure in Southeast Asia
- Operated by MEASAT Satellite Systems, becoming a cornerstone of Malaysia's space-based telecommunications network

## Body
### Technical Specifications
- Mass: 1450 kg
- Spacecraft bus: Boeing 376
- Power systems: Spacecraft solar arrays and nickel-hydrogen batteries (1 battery)

### Launch and Deployment
- Launch date: January 12, 1996 at 23:10:00
- Launch site: ELA-2
- Launch vehicle: Ariane 44L (V-82)
- Orbit: Geostationary orbit
- COSPAR ID: 1996-002B
- NSSDCA ID: 1996-002B

### Operational Details
- Operator: MEASAT Satellite Systems
- Country of operation: Malaysia
- Aliases: AFRICASAT-1, Africasat 1
- Followed by: MEASAT-2
- Class: Communications satellite

### Manufacturing and Development
- Manufacturer: Hughes Aircraft Company
- System: MEASAT satellite system
- Mission: Provide telecommunications services including television broadcasting, telephone services, and data communications
- Alternative designations reflect its regional service capabilities beyond Malaysia's borders

## References

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