Arabsat, a world leader in broadcasting and telecommunication satellites, has launched its latest state-of-the-art satellite, Arabsat Badr-8, aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 from Cape Canaveral, Florida, USA. Industry sources added that this satellite will join the Badr network at Arabsat’s orbital position of 26 degrees east, offering a broader range of services for television broadcasting, satellite communications, and information exchange in C and Ku frequency bands. Arabsat partnered with Airbus and SpaceX to make the launch a success.
“We are thrilled to announce the launch of Badr-8, which will provide advanced satellite services for our customers and partners in the Middle East, Africa, Central Asia, and beyond,” said Arabsat President and CEO, Eng. Alhamedi Alanezi. “The launch of Badr-8 demonstrates our commitment to expanding our satellite capabilities and providing the latest cutting-edge satellite solutions to meet the growing demand for high-quality broadcasting and communications services in the region and around the world.”
Jean Marc Nasr, Head of Space Systems said: “Marking our third successful launch of the Eurostar Neo series and our eighth spacecraft built for Arabsat, Badr-8, equipped with the very innovative TELEO payload, is the latest major milestone for our telecoms business. Featuring increased payload capacity and more efficient power and thermal control systems, Badr-8 will replace and increase Arabsat’s capacity.”
As a 7th generation satellite, Badr-8 is based on the Airbus Eurostar Neo electric orbit raising platform. The satellite features the innovative Airbus-developed TELEO optical communications payload demonstrator. This payload will enable very high-capacity analog optical feeder link communications capability. Proven to be highly robust against jamming, the technology is part of Airbus’ development strategy for a new generation of optical communications technology in space.
The launch of Badr-8 will enhance Arabsat’s capabilities and capacity to offer modern and advanced solutions that meet the needs and expectations of the company’s customers. It will also strengthen Arabsat’s leading role in the Middle East and North Africa region for satellite broadcasting and communications.
Industry sources added that following the successful launch and separation, Badr-8 is using its electric propulsion system to reach a geostationary orbit at 36,000 km. The satellite will then undergo a comprehensive testing period in geostationary orbit before entering full service. With a launch mass of 4.5 tons and 17.8 kW of power, the satellite is designed to operate in orbit for 15 years. Airbus’ ultra-reliable geostationary telecommunications satellites have achieved more than 1,300 years of service in orbit.
Press Release received on Mail
