Astra 4A at 4.8°E is a multi-mission satellite that covers Nordic Territory, European Territory, and Sub-Saharan territory and serves TV coverage.
General Data
Satellite Name: Astra 4A (Sirius 4)
Status: Active
Position: 5° E (4.8° E)
NORAD: 32299
Cospar ID: 2007-057A
Official Website: Click on the Spot Beam images to visit the website
Launch date: 18-Nov-2007
About: Scroll to the bottom of the page for more satellite insights
Launch vehicle: Proton M
Launch mass (kg): 4600
Dry mass (kg):
Manufacturer: Lockheed Martin
Model of the satellite: Lockheed Martin A2100
Bandwidth:33, 36, 72, 125, 250 Mhz
Orbit: GEO
Spot Beams
| C Band | ||||||||||||
| 42 dBW | 41 dBW | 40 dBW | 39 dBW | 38 dBW | 37 dBW | 36 dBW | 35 dBW | 34 dBW | 33 dBW | 32 dBW | 31 dBW | 30 dBW |
| 80-100 cm | 90-115 cm | 100-125 cm | 115-145 cm | 125-160 cm | 145-180 cm | 160-200 cm | 180-225 cm | 200-255 cm | 225-285 cm | 255-320 cm | 285-360 cm | 320-400 cm |
| Ku Band | ||||||||||||
| 50 dBW | 49 dBW | 48 dBW | 47 dBW | 46 dBW | 45 dBW | 44 dBW | 43 dBW | 42 dBW | 41 dBW | 40 dBW | 39 dBW | 38 dBW |
| 50-60 cm | 55-65 cm | 60-75 cm | 65-85 cm | 75-95 cm | 85-105 cm | 95-120 cm | 105-135 cm | 120-150 cm | 135-170 cm | 150-190 cm | 170-215 cm | 190-240 cm |
-Watch all sports video news and highlights
-More content on social media
About
Launched on November 26, 2007, the Astra 4A satellite is a cornerstone in the satellite communications domain. It offers extensive broadcasting and telecommunications services. Operated by SES S.A., the satellite occupies an orbital position at 4.8°E. It is a strategic location that allows it to serve a wide range of regions. It includes Europe, the Middle East, and parts of Africa. Moreover, this positioning is important as it enhances the satellite’s ability to deliver high-quality and reliable communication services to diverse audiences.
Saying so, the Astra 4A satellite was developed through a collaborative effort that brought together industry leaders and technological experts. Also, partnerships with various aerospace and telecommunications companies ensured that the satellite was equipped with advanced features and capabilities. These collaborations have not only facilitated the satellite’s development but also its successful deployment and operational efficiency.
The Role in Broadcasting
One of the significant aspects of Astra 4A is its role in broadcasting. It supports a myriad of television channels and radio stations, providing a wide array of content to millions of households. Additionally, the satellite is instrumental in telecommunications, offering services such as internet connectivity and data transmission. Also, this dual functionality underscores Astra 4A’s versatility and its importance in the global communications infrastructure.
The satellite’s technical prowess is evident in its key features. Astra 4A has with multiple transponders that operate in both the Ku and S bands, allowing for robust signal transmission and reception. It also boasts a high level of redundancy and reliability, ensuring uninterrupted service delivery. These attributes make Astra 4A an invaluable asset in maintaining and enhancing satellite communication networks.
In essence, Astra 4A at 4.8°E is a vital component of the satellite communications landscape, with its strategic positioning, advanced capabilities, and the collaborative efforts that have powered its success. Saying so, its contributions to broadcasting and telecommunications continue to be significant, making it a key player in the industry.
Technical Specifications
Astra 4A at 4.8°E, is a communications satellite which delivers a variety of broadcasting and data services. Furthermore, the satellite has multiple transponders, operating primarily in the Ku-band frequency. They are well-suited for television broadcasting due to its resistance to weather-related signal degradation. The satellite also utilizes the C-band for broader coverage, making it versatile in its service offerings. Each transponder’s capacity ensures robust signal transmission, catering to both standard and high definition television broadcasts.
Besides, the satellite boasts a sophisticated payload that includes advanced technologies aimed at enhancing its performance. Also, this includes onboard processors that manage signal routing and amplification, ensuring efficient bandwidth utilization and high-quality transmission. The power requirements for Astra 4A are supported by its solar arrays, which provide the necessary energy to maintain continuous operation and service availability.
Astra 4A’s coverage area is extensive, spanning across Europe, the Middle East, and parts of Africa. The satellite’s footprint maximizes signal strength and reach, with focused beams that allow for targeted service delivery. Detailed coverage maps illustrate the regions and countries benefiting from Astra 4A’s services. These maps highlight areas with optimal signal strength, ensuring that both densely populated urban centers and remote regions receive reliable coverage.
Furthermore, the types of content and services transmitted via Astra 4A are diverse, catering to a wide range of needs. Television broadcasts form a significant portion of the satellite’s offerings, including both free-to-air and subscription-based channels. Additionally, Astra 4A supports internet services, providing connectivity solutions in regions where terrestrial infrastructure is limited. Data communications are also a key service, enabling secure and efficient data transfer for enterprises and government agencies.
Applications and Services Provided
Astra 4A, positioned at 4.8°E, offers a multitude of applications and services that significantly impact various industries. One of the primary roles of Astra 4A is in television broadcasting. This satellite supports an extensive array of channels, catering to diverse audiences across Europe, the Middle East, and parts of Africa. Notable broadcasters utilizing Astra 4A’s services include major networks and regional channels, which benefit from the satellite’s robust and reliable transmission capabilities.
In addition to television broadcasting, Astra 4A plays a crucial role in enhancing internet connectivity, particularly in remote and underserved areas. The satellite’s coverage ensures that regions with limited terrestrial infrastructure can access high-speed internet services. This connectivity fosters educational opportunities, supports local businesses, and improves overall quality of life by bridging the digital divide.
Astra 4A also provides specialized services that extend beyond traditional broadcasting and internet connectivity. In emergency situations, the satellite’s communication capabilities are invaluable for disseminating critical information and coordinating response efforts. Maritime and aeronautical sectors benefit from Astra 4A’s ability to deliver reliable communication channels, ensuring seamless connectivity for ships and aircraft. These services are essential for navigation, safety, and operational efficiency in both industries.
Overall, Astra 4A at 4.8°E is a vital asset in the realm of satellite communications. Its comprehensive range of applications underscores its significance in television broadcasting, internet connectivity, and specialized communication services. By enhancing connectivity and information dissemination across various sectors, Astra 4A continues to play a pivotal role in supporting modern technological demands and fostering global communication networks.
Future Technological Advances
As we look towards the future, the outlook for Astra 4A remains promising, underpinned by ongoing advancements in satellite technology and evolving market needs. The rapid development of high-throughput satellites (HTS) and low Earth orbit (LEO) constellations heralds new opportunities for enhancing Astra 4A’s capabilities. Such technological progress can potentially lead to significant upgrades, increasing the satellite’s bandwidth and data transfer rates, and thereby extending its operational life and service quality.
One potential avenue for Astra 4A involves integrating cutting-edge propulsion systems and more efficient power management technologies. These enhancements could not only prolong the satellite’s operational lifespan but also improve its overall performance. Additionally, the advent of software-defined satellites offers another exciting prospect. These satellites can be reprogrammed in orbit to adapt to changing mission requirements, thereby providing greater flexibility and resilience in meeting diverse market demands.
Market Needs
In terms of market needs, there is a growing demand for reliable and high-speed internet connectivity, especially in remote and underserved regions. Astra 4A, with potential upgrades, could play a pivotal role in bridging the digital divide, providing essential communication services to these areas. Collaborations with telecommunications companies and international organizations could further expand its service offerings and coverage area, enhancing global connectivity.
Lastly, looking at broader trends in satellite communications, we see a clear shift towards more integrated and multi-orbit solutions. The combination of geostationary (GEO), medium Earth orbit (MEO), and LEO satellites provides a comprehensive network that can deliver seamless global coverage. Astra 4A, as part of this dynamic ecosystem, is well-positioned to capitalize on these trends, contributing to a more connected world.
In conclusion, continuous innovation is crucial in maintaining and improving satellite technology. By embracing the latest advancements and adapting to market needs, Astra 4A can continue to deliver essential services and support global connectivity. The future of satellite communications is bright, and Astra 4A is poised to remain at the forefront of this exciting field.