SSL has reported that the BSAT-4a satellite, designed and built for Broadcasting Satellite System Corporation (B-SAT) of Japan, is successfully performing post-launch maneuvers, all according to plan.

The satellite deployed its solar arrays on schedule following its launch aboard an Ariane 5 launch vehicle from the European Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana and it has begun firing its main thruster to propel toward its final geostationary orbit. The satellite will be used for DTH television service in Japan.

SSL is providing B-SAT with delivery-on-orbit service and is on track for early hand over. The satellite is a high-performance broadcasting satellite equipped with 24 Ku-band transponders. From its location at 110 degrees East Longitude, BSAT-4a will expand the availability of advanced television services such as HD and 4K/8K UHD.

B-SAT plans to use the satellite to provide 4K/8K broadcasting for the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympic games in 2020. 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.

Artistic rendition of the BSAT-4a satellite.

Dario Zamarian, group president of SSL, thanked B-SAT for placing their trust in SSL's ability to provide a highly optimized satellite that will serve the demand for next-generation services in Japan. The BSAT-4a marks SSL's first satellite for B-SAT and the company's fourth satellite for the Japanese market in recent years.

Takashi Yabashi, president and chief executive officer of B-SAT, added this his firm is pleased that SSL expects to deliver BSAT-4a on orbit ahead of schedule. With this satellite, B-SAT will now be able to provide viewers all over Japan with high definition and 4K/8K ultra-high definition broadcasting for the highest quality direct-to-home service.