SSL to provide UHD-capable satellite to B-SAT in Japan

SSL Selected To Provide Direct Broadcasting Satellite To B-SAT

PALO ALTO, Calif. — Space Systems/Loral (SSL), a leading provider of commercial satellites, today announced that it was selected to provide a broadcasting satellite for Broadcasting Satellite System Corporation (B-SAT), which is a leading broadcasting satellite operator in Japan. The satellite will be used for Direct-to-Home (DTH) television service in Japan.

“The BSAT-4a satellite represents our fourth satellite contract award for the Japanese market in the last two years,” said John Celli, president of SSL. “We are honored to have B-SAT place its trust in our long heritage of innovation.”

The satellite, BSAT-4a, will have 24 Ku-band transponders and will expand the availability of advanced television services such as high definition and 4K/8K ultra-high definition television. BSAT-4a is based on the highly reliable SSL 1300 platform, which provides high power and the flexibility to support a broad range of applications and technology advances. The satellite is designed to provide service for 15 years or more.

“We are pleased to be partnering with SSL on BSAT-4a,” said Takashi Yabashi, president and chief executive officer of B-SAT. “This satellite will enable us to continue providing high quality, reliable direct-to-home service throughout Japan.”