# Optus-X

> Australian geostationary communications satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q131311933](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q131311933)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/optus-x

## Summary
Optus-X is an Australian geostationary communications satellite operated by Optus. Launched on November 17, 2024, it is designed to provide telecommunications services from a fixed position in space. The satellite was manufactured by Northrop Grumman Innovation Systems and launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 Block 5 rocket.

## Key Facts
- **Class**: Communications satellite and geostationary satellite
- **Operator**: Optus (Australia)
- **Launch Date**: November 17, 2024, at 22:28 UTC
- **Launch Site**: Kennedy Space Center Launch Complex 39A
- **Launch Vehicle**: SpaceX Falcon 9 Block 5 (Booster B1077.16)
- **Manufacturer**: Northrop Grumman Innovation Systems (United States)
- **Orbit**: Geostationary orbit
- **Power Source**: Spacecraft solar array (2 units)
- **Spacecraft Bus**: GEOStar-3 (possibly)
- **Country of Origin**: United States
- **COSPAR ID**: 2024-212A
- **SCN (Satellite Catalog Number)**: 62006

## FAQs
### Q: What is the purpose of Optus-X?
A: Optus-X is a geostationary communications satellite designed to provide telecommunications services for Australia. It is operated by Optus and was launched in November 2024.

### Q: Who built and launched Optus-X?
A: Optus-X was manufactured by Northrop Grumman Innovation Systems and launched by SpaceX using a Falcon 9 Block 5 rocket on November 17, 2024.

### Q: Where is Optus-X located in orbit?
A: Optus-X is positioned in a geostationary orbit, allowing it to maintain a fixed position relative to Earth's surface.

### Q: How is Optus-X powered?
A: Optus-X is powered by a spacecraft solar array, with two units providing its energy needs.

### Q: What is the significance of Optus-X's launch date?
A: Optus-X was launched on November 17, 2024, marking the beginning of its operational phase in providing telecommunications services to Australia.

## Why It Matters
Optus-X plays a crucial role in Australia's telecommunications infrastructure by providing reliable and high-capacity communication services. As a geostationary satellite, it ensures continuous coverage, supporting various applications such as broadcasting, internet connectivity, and emergency communications. The satellite's launch by SpaceX demonstrates the growing collaboration between commercial space companies and government entities like Optus. This partnership not only enhances Australia's space capabilities but also contributes to the broader field of satellite communications, setting a precedent for future missions.

## Notable For
- **First Australian Geostationary Satellite Launched in 2024**: Optus-X marks a significant milestone as the first Australian geostationary communications satellite launched in 2024.
- **SpaceX Launch Collaboration**: The satellite's launch aboard a Falcon 9 Block 5 rocket highlights SpaceX's role in supporting Australia's space ambitions.
- **Northrop Grumman Manufacturing**: The satellite's construction by Northrop Grumman Innovation Systems underscores the company's expertise in geostationary communications satellites.
- **Geostationary Orbit Positioning**: Optus-X's placement in geostationary orbit ensures stable and continuous service delivery over Australia.
- **Solar Array Power**: The use of a spacecraft solar array with two units demonstrates advanced power management for satellite operations.

## Body
### Overview
Optus-X is a geostationary communications satellite operated by Optus, Australia's leading telecommunications provider. The satellite was launched on November 17, 2024, aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 Block 5 rocket from Kennedy Space Center Launch Complex 39A. It is designed to provide essential telecommunications services, including broadcasting, internet connectivity, and emergency communications.

### Technical Specifications
- **Satellite Bus**: The spacecraft is based on the GEOStar-3 bus, which is known for its reliability and efficiency in geostationary communications.
- **Power System**: Optus-X is equipped with a spacecraft solar array, with two units ensuring a consistent power supply for its operations.
- **Orbit**: The satellite is positioned in a geostationary orbit, allowing it to maintain a fixed position relative to Earth's surface, which is crucial for continuous coverage.

### Launch Details
- **Launch Vehicle**: The satellite was launched using a Falcon 9 Block 5 rocket, specifically Booster B1077.16, which is part of SpaceX's reusable launch vehicle fleet.
- **Launch Site**: The launch took place from Kennedy Space Center Launch Complex 39A, a historic site used for numerous space missions.
- **Launch Date**: November 17, 2024, at 22:28 UTC, marking the beginning of Optus-X's operational phase.

### Significance
Optus-X's launch is significant for several reasons. It represents Australia's commitment to advancing its space capabilities and enhancing its telecommunications infrastructure. The collaboration between Optus, Northrop Grumman, and SpaceX showcases the growing importance of commercial space partnerships in supporting national space programs. Additionally, the satellite's placement in geostationary orbit ensures reliable and continuous service delivery, supporting various critical applications.

### Future Implications
Optus-X's successful launch sets a precedent for future Australian space missions, demonstrating the feasibility and benefits of geostationary communications satellites. It also highlights the role of commercial space companies in supporting national space agencies and telecommunications providers. As Australia continues to invest in its space sector, satellites like Optus-X will play a pivotal role in shaping the country's technological and economic landscape.

## References

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