# MEASAT-2

> Malaysian communications satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q16943272](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q16943272)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/measat-2

## Summary
MEASAT-2 is a Malaysian communications satellite launched in 1996 to provide telecommunications services. It was operated by MEASAT Satellite Systems and played a key role in expanding Malaysia's satellite communications infrastructure.

## Key Facts
- **Launch Date**: November 13, 1996, at 22:40 UTC.
- **Mass**: 1,450 kilograms.
- **Operator**: MEASAT Satellite Systems.
- **Manufacturer**: Hughes Aircraft Company.
- **Launch Vehicle**: Ariane 44L (flight V-92).
- **Orbit**: Geostationary orbit.
- **Power Source**: Spacecraft solar array and nickel–hydrogen batteries.
- **Spacecraft Bus**: Boeing 376.
- **Preceded by**: MEASAT-1.
- **Followed by**: MEASAT-3.

## FAQs
### Q: When was MEASAT-2 launched?
A: MEASAT-2 was launched on November 13, 1996, at 22:40 UTC.

### Q: Who operated MEASAT-2?
A: MEASAT-2 was operated by MEASAT Satellite Systems, a Malaysian satellite communications company.

### Q: What was the purpose of MEASAT-2?
A: MEASAT-2 was designed as a communications satellite to provide telecommunications services, including television broadcasting and data transmission.

### Q: What rocket launched MEASAT-2?
A: MEASAT-2 was launched using an Ariane 44L rocket, part of the Ariane 4 series.

### Q: What is the mass of MEASAT-2?
A: MEASAT-2 has a mass of 1,450 kilograms.

## Why It Matters
MEASAT-2 was a significant milestone in Malaysia's space and telecommunications history. As a communications satellite, it played a crucial role in expanding the country's ability to provide reliable telecommunications services, including television broadcasting and data transmission. The satellite helped bridge the digital divide by improving connectivity in remote and underserved areas. Additionally, MEASAT-2 contributed to the growth of Malaysia's satellite industry, paving the way for future satellite missions and technological advancements. Its successful operation demonstrated Malaysia's capability in managing and utilizing space technology for national development.

## Notable For
- **First Malaysian Communications Satellite in the MEASAT Series**: MEASAT-2 was part of Malaysia's early efforts to establish a robust satellite communications network.
- **High Mass for Its Time**: With a mass of 1,450 kilograms, MEASAT-2 was a substantial satellite for its era, reflecting advanced engineering and design.
- **Use of Ariane 44L Rocket**: The launch vehicle, Ariane 44L, was known for its reliability and was used for numerous high-profile satellite launches.
- **Geostationary Orbit**: MEASAT-2 operated in a geostationary orbit, allowing it to provide continuous coverage over a specific region.
- **Powered by Advanced Technology**: The satellite utilized a spacecraft solar array and nickel–hydrogen batteries, showcasing advanced power management systems.

## Body
### Overview
MEASAT-2 is a Malaysian communications satellite designed to provide telecommunications services. It was launched on November 13, 1996, at 22:40 UTC from the ELA-2 launch site.

### Technical Specifications
- **Mass**: 1,450 kilograms.
- **Manufacturer**: Hughes Aircraft Company.
- **Spacecraft Bus**: Boeing 376.
- **Power Source**: Spacecraft solar array and nickel–hydrogen batteries.
- **Orbit**: Geostationary orbit.

### Launch Details
- **Launch Vehicle**: Ariane 44L (flight V-92).
- **Launch Date**: November 13, 1996.
- **Launch Time**: 22:40 UTC.
- **Launch Site**: ELA-2.

### Operational Details
- **Operator**: MEASAT Satellite Systems.
- **Country**: Malaysia.
- **Preceded by**: MEASAT-1.
- **Followed by**: MEASAT-3.

### Significance
MEASAT-2 was a crucial part of Malaysia's efforts to develop its satellite communications infrastructure. It provided essential telecommunications services, including television broadcasting and data transmission, contributing to the country's technological advancement and connectivity.

## Schema Markup
```json
{
  "@context": "https://schema.org",
  "@type": "Thing",
  "name": "MEASAT-2",
  "description": "Malaysian communications satellite launched in 1996 to provide telecommunications services.",
  "sameAs": ["https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367"],
  "additionalType": "CommunicationsSatellite"
}

## References

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