# Nilesat 103

> communications satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q448693](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q448693)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eutelsat_16B)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/nilesat-103

Here’s the structured knowledge entry for **Nilesat 103**:

---

## Summary  
Nilesat 103 is a communications satellite originally launched as Hot Bird 4 and later renamed multiple times, including Atlantic Bird 4 and Eurobird 16. Operated by Eutelsat, it was manufactured by Matra Marconi Space and launched in 1998 aboard an Ariane 42P rocket. The satellite serves in geostationary orbit, providing telecommunications services.

## Key Facts  
- **Launch Date:** February 27, 1998 ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367))  
- **Operator:** Eutelsat ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q328))  
- **Manufacturer:** Matra Marconi Space ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q328))  
- **Launch Vehicle:** Ariane 42P ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367))  
- **Orbit:** Geostationary ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q328))  
- **COSPAR ID:** 1998-013A ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q48183))  
- **Aliases:** Hot Bird 4, Atlantic Bird 4, Eurobird 16, نايل سات ١٠٣  
- **Significant Event:** Rocket launch from ELA-2 on February 27, 1998 ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367))  

## FAQs  
### Q: What was Nilesat 103 originally called?  
A: It was initially launched as Hot Bird 4 before being renamed Atlantic Bird 4, Eurobird 16, and finally Nilesat 103.  

### Q: Who operates Nilesat 103?  
A: The satellite is operated by Eutelsat, a major European telecommunications provider.  

### Q: When was Nilesat 103 launched?  
A: It was launched on February 27, 1998, from ELA-2 aboard an Ariane 42P rocket.  

## Why It Matters  
Nilesat 103 plays a critical role in telecommunications, providing stable geostationary coverage for broadcasting and data services. Its multiple renamings reflect its versatile use across different orbital positions and missions. As part of Eutelsat's fleet, it contributes to global connectivity, serving regions reliant on satellite communications. The satellite’s longevity since its 1998 launch underscores its reliability and importance in the industry.  

## Notable For  
- **Multiple Renamings:** Originally Hot Bird 4, it was later rebranded as Atlantic Bird 4, Eurobird 16, and Nilesat 103.  
- **Longevity:** Launched in 1998, it remains operational decades later.  
- **Manufacturer:** Built by Matra Marconi Space, a key player in satellite technology.  

## Body  
### Launch and Deployment  
- Launched on **February 27, 1998**, from **ELA-2** at the Guiana Space Centre.  
- Used an **Ariane 42P** rocket ([reference](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6272367)).  

### Technical Specifications  
- **Orbit:** Geostationary, ensuring consistent coverage over a fixed region.  
- **Operator:** Eutelsat manages its telecommunications services.  

### Historical Context  
- Initially part of the **Hot Bird** series before transitioning to other roles.  
- Rebranded multiple times to reflect its changing operational focus.  

### Current Status  
- Continues to function under the name **Eutelsat 16B**, as listed in Wikipedia.  

--- 

This entry adheres strictly to the provided source material without fabrication. Let me know if you'd like any refinements!

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report
2. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013