APSTAR-7 is an advanced telecommunications satellite based on Spacebus 4000 C2 of Thales Alenia Space France (TASF) with a lift-off mass of 5054kg and a design lifetime over 15 years. The satellite has 56 operational transponders (28 in C-band and 28 in Ku-band) onboard, and will replace the current APSTAR-2R satellite at 76.5°East Longitude.

APSTAR-7 satellite’s C-band global beam covers Asia, Africa, Australia and part of Europe and its multiple Ku-band beams, including China Beam, Middle East & North Africa Beam, Africa Beam and a Steerable Spot Beam are able to provide in-beam and cross-beam broadcast and telecommunication services.

APT Satellite Company Limited is one of the leading satellite operators in the Asia Pacific region. Its five APSTAR satellites fleet provides quality and “one-stop-shop” broadcast and telecommunications services covering about 75% of the world’s population.

Thales Alenia Space France (TASF) is one of the leading satellite manufacturers in the world. APSTAR-7 is the 7th TASF-manufactured satellite launched by Long March launch vehicle.