Skynet 5C
 | |
| Mission type | Militarycommunications |
|---|---|
| Operator | Paradigm Secure Communications EADS Astrium On behalf ofBritishMinistry of Defence |
| COSPAR ID | 2008-030A |
| SATCATno. | 33055 |
| Mission duration | 15 years |
| Spacecraft properties | |
| Manufacturer | EADS Astrium |
| Launch mass | 4,700 kilograms (10,400 lb) |
| Start of mission | |
| Launch date | 12 June 2008 |
| Rocket | Ariane 5ECA |
| Launch site | KourouELA-3 |
| Contractor | Arianespace |
| Orbital parameters | |
| Reference system | Geocentric |
| Regime | Geosynchronous |
Skynet 5Cis the third of fourSkynet 5militarycommunications satellitesto be used by theBritishMinistry of Defence(MOD).
Launch
[edit]It was launched fromFrench Guianaaboard anAriane 5ECAcarrier rocketat 22:05:02GMTon 12 June 2008.[1]The launch was originally scheduled for 23 May, but was delayed to 30 May, and then delayed again due to software problems with the carrier rocket. Originally built as a ground spare satellite, the decision to launch was made in 2007.Arianespaceprovidedlaunch services.
Spacecraft
[edit]It was constructed byEADS Astriumunder a contract to its subsidiary companyParadigm Secure Communications,who will operate the satellite on behalf of the MoD. Based on theEurostar E3000satellite bus,it has a mass of 4,700 kilograms, and an expected on-orbit lifetime of 15 years.[2]
Skynet 5C is part of a constellation of communications satellites for the United Kingdom Ministry of Defense that supports nuclear hardened and protected military X-band and UHF frequency capabilities.[3]
Skynet 5C is located at 17.8 degrees West.[4]
References
[edit]
- ^"Successful dual launch for Arianespace: Skynet 5C and Turksat 3A in orbit; 25th successful launch in a row for Ariane 5".Arianespace. 12 June 2008.Retrieved18 March2023.
- ^Krebs, Gunter D."Skynet 5A, 5B, 5C, 5D".Gunter's Space Page.Retrieved18 March2023.
- ^George Allison (21 May 2018)."What is Skynet? A look at Britain's military communications satellites".ukdefencejournal.org.uk.Retrieved18 March2023.
- ^"Satbeams - Skynet 5C".satbeams.Retrieved18 March2023.
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