Express-103 satellite has become operational, joining the orbital constellation of Russian Satellite Communications Company (RSCC) at 96.5 degrees East.
The new communication satellite is designed to provide digital TV and radio broadcasting, high-speed internet access and data transmission. It also provides maritime VSat and in-flight connectivity services in Russia and abroad.
Commenting on the development, Yuri Prokhorov, RSCC acting general director, said: “Express-103 satellite will replace Express-AM33 spacecraft in the 96.5 E slot, providing satellite communications services in the eastern regions of Russia and in Southeastern Asia. As a result, the launch of Express-103 satellite is seen as a significant potential enhancement in the quality and reliability of the services. Importantly, Express-103 satellite will ensure an almost total coverage of the Northern Sea Route”.
The Express-103 spacecraft was launched into a geostationary orbit from the Baikonur Cosmodrome on July 31, 2020. The satellite was manufactured by the leading Russian enterprise in the rocket and space industry – JSC ISS Reshetnev Company in collaboration with its European partner, Thales Alenia Space. The Express-103 service life is 15 years.
RSCC runs Russia’s largest orbital constellation, which consists 12 Geo satellites operating in the C-, Ku-, Ka- and L-bands. The orbital constellation is located on an arc of a geostationary orbit from 14 degrees West to 140 degrees East, enabling RSCC to provide services to clients in 58 countries on all continents.
