BS-3B

Description

BS-3B (Broadcasting Satellite-3B) was launched utilizing the H-I launch vehicle from the Tanegashima Space Center in Japan. It was equipped with three 120 W transponders operating at 12/14 GHz for direct-to-home TV broadcast. Two transponders were used by the Japanese national broadcasting network, Nippon Hoso Kyokai (NHK), the other by privately owned Japan Satellite Broadcasting Co. BS-3B also hosted a full redundant backup channel, and a 20-W wideband transponder for experimental transmissions of high definition TV. Manufactured by Nippon Electric Co (NEC), the satellite was based on GE's SATCOM 3000 bus. It measured 1.3 by 1.6 by 1.6 m, with solar arrays spanning 15 m tip to tip. Once in space, the satellite's name was changed to Yuir 3B (Lily). Operational above 110 deg. e, it has a 7 to 9-year life expectancy.