First All-Electric Propulsion Communication Satellite by China Becomes Fully Operational After In-Orbit Testing
Key Takeaway
China’s first all-electric propulsion communication satellite, APStar-6E, has become fully operational after successful in-orbit testing. This satellite aims to provide high-capacity, cost-effective broadband communication services to Southeast Asia, enhancing the region’s information industry and addressing the digital divide.
Summary
- Satellite Name: APStar-6E
- Launch Date: January 13, 2023
- Launch Vehicle: Long March-2C carrier rocket
- Launch Site: Xichang Satellite Launch Center, Sichuan Province, China
- Satellite Platform: DFH-3E
- Manufacturer: China Great Wall Industry Corporation (CGWIC)
- Operator: APT Mobile Satcom Limited
- Management: APT Satellite Company Limited
- Operational Slot: 134°E
- Communication Capacity: 30 Gbps
- Lifespan: 15 years
- Bands: 25 Ku-band user beams, 3 Ka-band gateway beams
- Significance: Enhances international competitiveness of China’s communication satellite platforms, supports autonomous orbit transfer, and improves intelligent autonomy of satellite platforms
- Global Impact: Provides high-throughput broadband resources to developing areas, helping bridge the digital divide
- International Programs: CGWIC has conducted 13 in-orbit delivery communication satellite programs for international customers including Nigeria, Venezuela, Pakistan, Bolivia, Laos, Belarus, and Algeria
Main Article
The Asia-Pacific-6E, also known as APStar-6E, is a milestone in China’s space technology, representing the country’s first all-electric propulsion communication satellite. Developed by the China Academy of Spacecraft Technology using the DFH-3E satellite platform, the APStar-6E has successfully passed all in-orbit technology verification and ground station technology reviews, making it fully operational.
Development and Launch
The APStar-6E was developed by the China Academy of Spacecraft Technology using the DFH-3E satellite platform. It was launched on January 13, 2023, aboard a Long March-2C carrier rocket from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in Sichuan Province, China. This launch marked a significant achievement as it featured the first use of dual electric propulsion systems for station-keeping and autonomous orbit transfer.
Table 1: APStar-6E Key Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Satellite Name | APStar-6E |
| Launch Date | January 13, 2023 |
| Launch Vehicle | Long March-2C carrier rocket |
| Launch Site | Xichang Satellite Launch Center |
| Satellite Platform | DFH-3E |
| Communication Capacity | 30 Gbps |
| Lifespan | 15 years |
| Bands | 25 Ku-band user beams, 3 Ka-band gateway beams |
In-Orbit Testing and Verification
After the launch, the APStar-6E separated from its propulsion module on January 23, 2023. It then utilized its onboard Hall/Ion dual electric propulsion systems to autonomously change orbits. By June 10, 2024, the satellite had reached its geosynchronous orbit (GEO) and was positioned at its test location.
The in-orbit testing of the APStar-6E proceeded smoothly, with the satellite completing the first phase of testing on July 9, 2024. It was subsequently repositioned to its operational slot at 134°E, co-located with the APStar-6C and APStar-6D satellites. According to the China Great Wall Industry Corporation (CGWIC), the payload of the APStar-6E is functioning normally, with performance meeting contractual specifications and in-orbit operational requirements.
Operational Significance
The successful operation of the APStar-6E is significant for several reasons:
- High-Capacity and Low-Cost Satellite Platforms: The APStar-6E represents a new generation of high-capacity, cost-effective satellite platforms. Its ability to provide approximately 30 Gbps of communication capacity makes it a valuable asset for broadband communication services.
- Autonomous Orbit Transfer: The APStar-6E is the first Chinese satellite to achieve autonomous orbit transfer using its dual electric propulsion systems. This capability enhances the satellite’s operational flexibility and reduces dependency on traditional chemical propulsion systems.
- Intelligent Autonomy: The satellite’s successful in-orbit operations demonstrate improvements in the intelligent autonomy of China’s satellite platforms. This advancement allows for more efficient management and operation of satellite systems.
Table 2: APStar-6E Communication Capabilities
| Communication Band | Number of Beams | Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Ku-band | 25 user beams | High-capacity |
| Ka-band | 3 gateway beams | High-throughput |
Impact on Southeast Asia
The APStar-6E focuses on providing high-capacity, cost-effective broadband communication services to the Southeast Asian market. This region has a significant digital divide, with many areas lacking reliable internet connectivity. The APStar-6E aims to address this issue by offering high-throughput broadband satellite resources, which will aid the development of the regional information industry and enhance digital inclusion.
Global Outreach
The CGWIC, a subsidiary of the state-owned China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC), has a track record of successful satellite programs. It has conducted 13 in-orbit delivery communications satellite programs for international customers, delivering satellite systems to countries including Nigeria, Venezuela, Pakistan, Bolivia, Laos, Belarus, and Algeria.
Future Prospects
The APStar-6E’s success paves the way for future advancements in satellite technology. Its autonomous orbit transfer capability and high-capacity communication services set a new standard for satellite platforms. As China continues to innovate in this field, we can expect further enhancements in the intelligent autonomy and operational efficiency of satellite systems.
Conclusion
The APStar-6E is a landmark achievement for China’s space industry. As the first all-electric propulsion communication satellite, it showcases significant advancements in satellite technology, providing high-capacity, cost-effective broadband communication services to Southeast Asia. The successful in-orbit testing and operational deployment of the APStar-6E underscore China’s growing capabilities in the global satellite communication industry.