Bangladesh Satellite-1 was launched on April 10, 2017, aboard a Chinese Long March 2D rocket. This marked a significant milestone in the country's space program.
The satellite was designed and developed by the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission in collaboration with the China Great Wall Industry Corporation. It was built to provide telecommunications services to remote areas of Bangladesh.
The satellite weighs around 110 kg and has a lifespan of 15 years. Its primary objective is to provide internet, voice, and data services to the rural population of Bangladesh.
Bangladesh Satellite-1 was launched from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in China.
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Launch and Deployment
Bangladesh Satellite-1 was launched at 20:14 UTC on 12 May 2018, on a SpaceX Falcon 9 launch vehicle at the Kennedy Space Center, USA. It was the first payload to be launched using the new SpaceX Block 5 model of the rocket.
The satellite was originally planned to launch on 10 May 2018, but the rocket triggered an automatic abort as it entered the startup phase of terminal count at T-58 seconds. This led to a 24-hour delay, and the rocket was finally launched on 11 May 2018.
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The launch was a historic moment for SpaceX, marking the first time they used the Block 5 model of the Falcon 9 rocket. This new model is designed to be more efficient and reliable than its predecessors.
Here are some key facts about the launch:
- Launch date: 12 May 2018
- Launch time: 20:14 UTC
- Launch site: Kennedy Space Center, USA
- Launch vehicle: SpaceX Falcon 9
- Model: Block 5
The successful launch of Bangladesh Satellite-1 marked a significant milestone for the country's space program.
Satellite Details
The Bangladesh Satellite-1 is a remarkable piece of technology. It was launched on 10 May 2017.
The satellite weighs about 420 kilograms. It has a solar panel that provides power to the satellite.
Bangladesh Satellite-1 has a mission to provide telecommunication services to the country. Its primary objective is to increase internet connectivity in rural areas.
The satellite is equipped with a Ku-band transponder. This allows it to transmit data and voice signals.
Bangladesh Satellite-1 has a design life of 15 years. This means it can continue to provide services for a long time.
Related reading: Telecommunications in Bangladesh
Operations
The Bangabandhu Satellite-1 uses ground control stations built by Thales Alenia Space with its partner Spectra primary ground station in Gazipur.
Secondary ground station is located in Betbunia, Rangamati.
The first test signal after launch was received by the operators on 12 May 2018.
Ground stations are crucial for communication between the satellite and Earth, ensuring smooth operations.
The satellite service provider, Bangladesh Communication Satellite Company Limited, is working to fix technical problems that may arise during transmission.
To minimize the cost of TV channels, the BCSCL has decided to lower its frequency charges for using the Bangabandhu Satellite.
The cost of using foreign satellites is around Tk 1.3 million to 2.5 million per month, while the Bangabandhu Satellite will cost only Tk 1.2 million to 1.6 million.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Bangladesh Satellite-1?
Bangladesh Satellite-1 is located at the 119.1° East longitude geostationary slot. It was relocated there after initially considering a different launch vehicle.
What is the new name of Bangabandhu Satellite-1?
The new name of the satellite is Bangladesh Satellite-1. It was previously known as Bangabandhu Satellite-1.
What is the importance of Bangabandhu Satellite-1?
The Bangabandhu-1 satellite plays a crucial role in bridging the digital divide by providing internet, banking, and educational services to remote and underserved areas. It expands access to essential services, improving the quality of life for people in these communities.
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