BSAT-4a delivered to Arianespace launch base

SSL Delivers High Performance Direct Broadcasting Satellite For B-SAT To The Arianespace Launch Base

PALO ALTO, Calif. — Space Systems Loral (SSL), a leading provider of innovative satellites and spacecraft systems, today announced that the BSAT-4a satellite, designed and built for Broadcasting Satellite System Corporation (B-SAT), a leading broadcasting satellite operator in Japan, has arrived at the European Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana, where it will be launched aboard an Ariane 5 launch vehicle by Arianespace. The satellite will be used for Direct-to-Home (DTH) television service in Japan.

“The completion and delivery of this high performance satellite to launch base demonstrates the success of our streamlined operations,” said Paul Estey, executive vice president and chief operating officer of SSL. “We are honored that B-SAT put its trust in SSL for this next-generation satellite, and look forward to our teams working together with Arianespace to prepare the satellite for launch.”

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. The satellite is based on the highly reliable SSL 1300 platform, which provides the flexibility to support a broad range of applications and technology advances. It is designed to provide service for 15 years or longer.

“BSAT-4a is the first satellite we have purchased from SSL and we have been pleased with the support that we received from their skilled and experienced team,” said Takashi Yabashi, president and chief executive officer of B-SAT. “SSL has proven its reputation as an agile and reliable partner during the production of our satellite and we are happy with its on-time delivery to launch base. Now we look forward to providing the expanded Ultra HD programming and high quality direct-to-home service that this satellite enables.”