Thales Alenia Space, in collaboration with KT SAT, launched the KoreaSat-6A satellite, marking a significant step in South Korea’s communication and navigation services. Positioned in geostationary orbit at 116° East, KoreaSat-6A replaces the older to deliver enhanced broadcast and fixed communication services across South Korea.
Table of Key Details
| Topic | Details |
| Satellite | KoreaSat-6A |
| Contractor | Thales Alenia Space |
| Launch Provider | SpaceX |
| Launch Location | Kennedy Space Center, Florida |
| Orbit Position | 116° East (Geostationary Orbit) |
| Primary Functions | Communication and GPS Augmentation |
| Booster Reusability | Achieved 23 flights; returned to Cape Canaveral |
The Role of Thales Alenia Space in KoreaSat-6A
As the prime contractor, Thales Alenia Space designed, constructed, and prepared KoreaSat-6A for launch. With support from the Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI), the satellite includes the Korea Augmentation Satellite System (KASS) through its Satellite-Based Augmentation System (SBAS) payload, improving GPS accuracy for critical sectors like air navigation and transportation.
The Launch by SpaceX
SpaceX launched KoreaSat-6A from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Approximately 35 minutes after liftoff, the satellite was successfully placed in its designated orbit. The mission also highlighted the reusable SpaceX booster’s 23rd flight, matching SpaceX’s record of booster reusability. The booster returned to Cape Canaveral just 10 minutes after launch, showcasing the cost-saving and sustainability benefits of reusability.
Importance of Reusability in Space Missions
The successful reuse of the first-stage booster underscores SpaceX’s commitment to reducing launch costs and increasing the frequency of space missions. SpaceX’s approach to reusability has set new standards in the space industry, encouraging other companies to adopt similar practices.
Comparison with Other SpaceX Boosters
While two other SpaceX boosters have also achieved 23 flights, they are no longer in service. This emphasizes the challenges of reusability despite extensive experience in spaceflight technology.
KoreaSat-6A Satellite Successfully Launched by SpaceX Summary
- KoreaSat-6A Satellite: Launched to replace KoreaSat-6, enhancing connectivity and GPS accuracy in South Korea.
- Launch Site: Kennedy Space Center, Florida.
- First-Stage Booster: Completed its 23rd flight and landed back, highlighting SpaceX’s reusability.
- Reusability Benefits: Cost-saving and sustainability, marking a milestone in commercial space travel.
Industry Impact: Encourages innovation in satellite and space technology.
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FAQs
A communication satellite was launched for South Korea, enhancing connectivity and GPS accuracy.
SpaceX launched the satellite from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
KASS stands for Korea Augmentation Satellite System, improving GPS accuracy in navigation.
Reusing boosters saves costs and supports sustainable space missions by reducing waste and launch costs.
With the SBAS payload, it enhances GPS accuracy, especially for air navigation and transportation.
The satellite is stationed in geostationary orbit at 116° East.
The first-stage booster completed its 23rd flight with this launch.
