Galaxy 3C at 95° W covers the entire continent of North America in different dWB values up to 41.1 dWB for each band C-Band and Ku-Band.
General Data
Satellite Name: Galaxy 3C (G-3C)
Status: Active
Position: 95° W (95° W)
NORAD: 27445
Cospar ID: 2002-030A
Official Website: Click on the Spot Beam images to visit the official website
Launch date: 15-Jun-2002
About: Scroll to the bottom of the page for more satellite insights
Launch vehicle: Zenit 3SL
Launch mass (kg): 4860
Dry mass (kg): 2873
Manufacturer: Boeing (Hughes)
Model of the Satellite: BSS-702
Orbit: Inclined
Spot Beams
-Watch all sports video news and highlights
-More content on social media
| 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 |
About Galaxy 3C
The Galaxy 3C satellite, positioned at 95°W longitude, represents a critical asset in the satellite communication industry. It was launched on June 15, 2002, by International Launch Services (ILS) using a Proton-K rocket. This satellite expands communication capabilities across North America. Its deployment marked a significant advancement in the ability to deliver a wide range of services. This includes broadcast television, radio, and data communications, to a diverse audience.
The primary mission objectives of the Galaxy 3C satellite revolve around ensuring uninterrupted, high-quality communication services. With its strategic placement at 95°W, the satellite covers a vast geographical area, enabling reliable and efficient signal transmission. This specific orbital location is particularly significant. Meanwhile, it serves as a key position for broadcasting services in the Western Hemisphere.
In terms of its technical specifications, Galaxy 3C is equipped with 24 C-band and 24 Ku-band transponders. The satellite facilitates a wide array of communication services. The C-band transponders are particularly beneficial for broadcasting and telecommunication services due to their ability to penetrate through weather disturbances, ensuring consistent service delivery. On the other hand, the Ku-band transponders offer higher frequency transmission, ideal for direct-to-home (DTH) broadcasting and data transfer services.
The significance of the Galaxy 3C satellite extends beyond mere technical capabilities. Its role in enhancing connectivity and communication across different sectors underscores its importance in an increasingly interconnected world. From supporting media companies in delivering content to remote areas to enabling robust data communication networks for businesses, the impact of Galaxy 3C is far-reaching.
As we delve deeper into the specifications and data associated with this satellite, it becomes evident that the Galaxy 3C is not just a technological marvel. It is also a cornerstone in the realm of satellite communications, playing a pivotal role in bridging communication gaps globally.
Technical Specifications of Galaxy 3C
The Galaxy 3C satellite, positioned at 95°W, is a marvel of modern satellite technology, featuring a robust design and advanced systems. Hughes Space and Communications has built the satellite on the HS 601HP platform, ensuring high performance and reliability. Its dimensions are noteworthy, with a length of 26 meters when fully deployed, including its solar panels. The satellite’s launch weight is approximately 4,080 kilograms, a testament to its extensive onboard systems and structural integrity.
Power generation is a critical aspect of the Galaxy 3C’s operational capabilities. The satellite has state-of-the-art solar arrays, generating up to 10.6 kilowatts of power, which supports all its onboard systems. This energy is essential for the operation of its transponders and other electronic components, ensuring uninterrupted service. Additionally, the satellite incorporates advanced battery technology, allowing it to maintain functionality during periods of eclipse when solar power is not available.
The transponder capacity of the Galaxy 3C is impressive, featuring 24 C-band and 24 Ku-band transponders. These transponders facilitate a wide range of communication services, from broadcasting to data transmission. The C-band transponders operate within the 3.7 to 4.2 GHz frequency range, while the Ku-band transponders function within the 11.7 to 12.2 GHz range. This dual-band capability enables the satellite to serve diverse applications, meeting the needs of various sectors, including media, telecommunications, and internet service providers.
Technological innovations in the Galaxy 3C include its use of advanced antenna systems and signal processing technologies. These innovations enhance signal quality and reduce interference, ensuring reliable communication links. The satellite is also designed for a prolonged operational lifespan, with an expected service duration of 15 years. This longevity is a result through meticulous engineering and the use of durable materials, underscoring the satellite’s role as a long-term asset in the geostationary orbit.
Data Transmission and Coverage
The Galaxy 3C satellite, positioned at 95°W, plays an instrumental role in facilitating seamless communication across various regions. It boasts robust data transmission capabilities, with impressive data rates that support a wide range of applications from television broadcasting to internet services. The satellite’s high signal strength and substantial bandwidth ensure reliable and consistent connectivity, crucial for both commercial and individual users.
One of the standout features of the Galaxy 3C is its extensive geographical coverage. The satellite serves a broad footprint, encompassing North America, including key markets in the United States, Mexico, and parts of Canada. This expansive reach is particularly beneficial for broadcasters and telecommunications providers who require stable and wide-reaching signal distribution.
The Galaxy 3C operates on both C-band and Ku-band frequencies, providing flexibility and efficiency in data transmission. The uplink frequencies for the C-band range from 5.925 to 6.425 GHz, while the downlink frequencies span 3.7 to 4.2 GHz. For the Ku-band, uplink frequencies are set between 14.0 to 14.5 GHz, with downlink frequencies ranging from 11.7 to 12.2 GHz. These frequency ranges minimize interference and maximize signal quality, ensuring that users experience minimal disruptions in service.
Additionally, the Galaxy 3C utilizes a variety of beam types to cater to different coverage needs. Spot beams deliver concentrated signals to specific areas, enhancing signal strength and reducing transmission costs. Conversely, wide beams cover larger regions, ensuring comprehensive coverage across multiple locations. This strategic use of beam types allows the Galaxy 3C to effectively meet diverse communication requirements.
In summary, the Galaxy 3C satellite at 95°W is a vital asset in the realm of data transmission and coverage. Its advanced capabilities in data rates, signal strength, and bandwidth, coupled with its extensive geographical reach and efficient frequency utilization, make it a cornerstone for reliable and expansive communication services.
Applications and Impact
The Galaxy 3C satellite, positioned at 95°W, plays a pivotal role in various industries, driving significant advancements in technology and global connectivity. One of its primary applications is in television broadcasting. The satellite enables the transmission of high-definition television (HDTV) channels across vast geographical regions, ensuring that audiences receive seamless and high-quality broadcasts. This capability is crucial for both entertainment and informational programming, contributing to a more informed and connected society.
In the realm of internet services, Galaxy 3C provides reliable and high-speed internet connectivity to remote and underserved areas. By bridging the digital divide, it ensures that people in rural and isolated locations have access to the same online resources and opportunities as those in urban centers. This has profound implications for education, healthcare, and economic development, as it empowers individuals and communities through enhanced communication and information access.
Telecommunication sector
Telecommunication is another sector significantly impacted by the Galaxy 3C satellite. It supports a wide array of communication services, including voice, data, and video transmission. Telecommunications companies leverage this satellite to expand their coverage areas, improve service quality, and offer innovative solutions such as satellite phones and mobile backhaul services. This enhances the overall efficiency and reliability of communication networks, making them more resilient to disruptions.
Emergency communication is a critical application of the Galaxy 3C satellite. In the aftermath of natural disasters or other emergencies, terrestrial communication infrastructure is often compromised. The satellite provides a dependable and rapid means of communication, enabling emergency responders and relief organizations to coordinate their efforts effectively. This capability is vital for saving lives, delivering aid, and restoring normalcy in affected regions.
Case studies highlight the practical benefits of the Galaxy 3C satellite. For instance, during Hurricane Maria in 2017, the satellite facilitated emergency communications in Puerto Rico when ground-based systems were incapacitated. This ensured continuity in relief operations and expedited recovery efforts. Such examples underscore the satellite’s indispensable role in crisis situations.
Overall, the Galaxy 3C satellite’s contributions extend beyond specific industries. It fosters global connectivity, promotes technological growth, and enhances the quality of life for people worldwide. By providing reliable and versatile communication solutions, it stands as a testament to the transformative power of satellite technology in the modern era.
