Astra 1Q

Astra 1Q [TAS]

Astra 1Q is a geostationary communications satellite owned by SES, which will provide distribution of direct-to-home broadcast services across Europe.

Thales Alenia Space announced in November 2021that it has signed a contract with SES to deliver two Ku-band geostationary satellites, Astra 1P and Astra 1Q to serve SES’s major European broadcasters’ content distribution operations as well as deliver connectivity services over Europe at 19.2° East.

Astra 1Q, a next-generation software defined satellite with both wide beams and high-throughput spot beams, will be able to support direct-to-home (DTH) operations like Astra 1P. In addition, the fully flexible Astra 1Q is customisable on orbit and can be deployed easily to other orbital positions, enabling SES to serve the dynamic needs of its video and data customers well into the future. It will be based on the Space Inspire (INstant SPace In-orbit REconfiguration) innovative product line allowing seamless telecommunication mission and services reconfiguration, instant in-orbit adjustment to the demand, outstanding flexibility for video broadcasting and broadband connectivity services while maximizing the efficiency and effective use of the satellite resources.