| Operator | Hisdesat |
|---|---|
| COSPAR ID | 2005-005A |
| SATCATno. | 28542 |
| Spacecraft properties | |
| Bus | SSL 1300 |
TheXTAR-EUR is acommunication satellite developed by Spain and the United States and in order to provide asecure channel over theIndian Ocean.[1] It was originally operated byXTAR andHisdesat.[2] In year 2020Hisdesat bought 100% stake on the satellite. Its launch short after theSpainsat is part of an effort to strengthen Spain's communication ties with allied countries around the globe, particularly in maters ofnational security (defense, disaster relief...).[3]
The satellite is based on theSpace Systems/Loral LS-1300 model. Consequently, it is shaped like a box (5.4 x 2.9 x 2.2 m) with a total weight of 1412 kg (3631 kg at launch). The sides of the box contain two retractablesolar panels (providing up to 3.6 kW of power) while the lower base (facing anti-radial direction) holds the communication module. This module operates on theX band (compatible withSATCOM systems employed byNATO)[4] and consists of 12 X-bandtransponders of 72 MHzbroadband each (reserving 4 for usage by theSpanish Ministry of Defense while offering the other 8 for potential partners) and a 2.4 diameterantenna. The system allows bothRHCP and LHCP polarization while covering an area of 6,3095 m2RCS (2 global beams from EasternBrazil and theAtlantic Ocean, across all ofAfrica and theMiddle East to as far east asSingapore, 1 beam across theMediterranean Sea and 4 steerable beams with the possibility of overlapping).[5] Additional systems provide 3-axis inflight stability.[6]
The satellite was officially launched the 12th of February 2005 at 21:03UT on board anAriane-5 ECA rocket from theGuyana Space Center.[7][8]
Its orbit isgeostationary (GEO) 29ºEast, around 35,800 km high (35,782.6 km ofperigee and 35,803.7 km ofapogee) with 0º ofinclination, aperiod of 1,436.1 minutes and asemi-major axis of 42,164 km.[9]
During its operation life, the XTAR-EUR is being monitored fromArganda del Rey andMaspalomas Station.[10] While the operating companies are based onWashington, D.C.,Madrid andPalo Alto.[11]
It is expected that the satellite will achieve an operational life exceeding 15 years until its planned decommission in 2023.
