Speedier launch for Japan’s JCSat-13
June 21, 2011
By Chris Forrester
Japan’s SkyPerfect DTH operation is cutting dramatically the time for launching its next satellite, JCSAT-13. Normally satellite launch dates slip, often by weeks but frequently for a year or so. JSat’s decision sees an extremely accelerated manufacturing process by satellite builders Lockheed Martin, from an originally planned 2013 to later this year.
Arianespace is now scheduling a launch early this winter so that JCSAT-1`3’s 44 transponders can get to work at 124 deg East, and replacing JCSAT-4A. The craft will boost coverage over Japan and will also supply a South-east Asia beam looking at Indonesia and Malaysia. Steerable beams will also permit signals between the Middle East and Oceania regions.
Osamu Inoue, SEVP of SKY Perfect JSAT, said, “We are very pleased to have a launch slot earlier than the original, which allows us to quickly respond to a variety of customer requirements such as DTH services, high-speed broadband services and enterprise VSAT networks, in which time-to-market is a crucial factor for success. We view JCSAT-13 as an important platform for our future growth. Leveraging on its Southeast Asia beam and the two steerable beams, this satellite will significantly expand our international Ku-band businesses to new areas.”