# Superbird-B2

> Japanese geostationary communications satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q14174137](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q14174137)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Superbird-B2)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/superbird-b2

## Summary
Superbird-B2 is a Japanese geostationary communications satellite launched on February 18, 2000, by SKY Perfect JSAT Holdings. It was built by Hughes Aircraft Company using the Boeing 601 spacecraft bus and was launched via an Ariane 44LP rocket from ELA-2. It was succeeded by Superbird-B3.

## Key Facts
- **Class**: Communications satellite and geostationary satellite
- **Operator**: SKY Perfect JSAT Holdings
- **Launch Date**: February 18, 2000
- **Launch Vehicle**: Ariane 44LP
- **Launch Site**: ELA-2
- **Manufacturer**: Hughes Aircraft Company
- **Spacecraft Bus**: Boeing 601
- **Orbit**: Geostationary orbit
- **Successor**: Superbird-B3
- **Aliases**: Superbird 4
- **COSPAR ID**: 2000-012A

## FAQs
### Q: What type of satellite is Superbird-B2?
A: Superbird-B2 is a geostationary communications satellite designed for telecommunications.

### Q: Who operates Superbird-B2?
A: Superbird-B2 is operated by SKY Perfect JSAT Holdings.

### Q: When was Superbird-B2 launched?
A: Superbird-B2 was launched on February 18, 2000.

### Q: What rocket was used to launch Superbird-B2?
A: Superbird-B2 was launched using an Ariane 44LP rocket.

### Q: What is the spacecraft bus of Superbird-B2?
A: Superbird-B2 uses the Boeing 601 spacecraft bus.

## Why It Matters
Superbird-B2 played a crucial role in Japan's satellite communications infrastructure, providing reliable service in the geostationary orbit. As part of the Superbird series, it supported broadcasting, telecommunications, and other communication services. Its launch and operation were significant for SKY Perfect JSAT Holdings, contributing to Japan's advancements in satellite technology. The satellite's successor, Superbird-B3, further expanded its capabilities, ensuring continued service in the region.

## Notable For
- **First in Series**: One of the first satellites in the Superbird series, establishing a foundation for later models.
- **Geostationary Orbit**: Positioned in a geostationary orbit, providing stable and continuous coverage.
- **Boeing 601 Bus**: Utilized the Boeing 601 spacecraft bus, known for its reliability in communications satellites.
- **Ariane 44LP Launch**: Launched by the Ariane 44LP rocket, a variant of the Ariane 4 series.
- **Successor**: Paved the way for Superbird-B3, ensuring a smooth transition in service.

## Body
### Overview
Superbird-B2 is a Japanese communications satellite launched in 2000 as part of the Superbird series. It was designed to operate in a geostationary orbit, providing telecommunications services across Japan and the Asia-Pacific region.

### Technical Specifications
- **Spacecraft Bus**: Boeing 601
- **Manufacturer**: Hughes Aircraft Company
- **Orbit**: Geostationary orbit
- **Launch Vehicle**: Ariane 44LP
- **Launch Site**: ELA-2

### Operational Details
- **Operator**: SKY Perfect JSAT Holdings
- **Launch Date**: February 18, 2000
- **COSPAR ID**: 2000-012A
- **Successor**: Superbird-B3

### Significance
Superbird-B2 was a key satellite in Japan's communications network, supporting broadcasting and telecommunications. Its launch and operation were part of SKY Perfect JSAT Holdings' efforts to enhance satellite-based services. The satellite's successor, Superbird-B3, continued to build on its legacy, ensuring reliable service in the region.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report