APSTAR-VI is a new generation satellite with a strong and successful flight heritage. It is based on the SB 4000 C2 platform developed by Alcatel Space.
The APSTAR-VI payload system consists of 38 C-band transponders and 12 Ku-band transponders. Equipped with powerful 64W linearized TWTAs, the C-band transponders cover Asia, Australia , New Zealand , Pacific islands and Hawaii . The Ku-band transponders mainly focus on the Greater China region, it is designed with powerful and linearized TWTAs, single polarization and other unique features, thus allows APSTAR-VI to provide the ideal solutions for DTH, SNG and other broadcasting/telecommunication services in the region.
APSTAR-VI was successfully launched on April 12, 2005 by Long March 3B launch vehicle from Xichang , China and replaced APSTAR-IA at geostationary orbital slot 134°E. It has an estimated operational lifetime of over 15 years.
