KL-Beta [CAS]
The KL-Beta A and B satellites are test satellites for a global multimedia satellite system for the German company KLEO Connect.
The satellites are improved versions of the earlier KL-Alpha prototypes.
The purpose of the Beta phase test satellites is to assess the Ka-band mobile communication environment adaptability, the verification of a Ka-band LEO satellites to GEO satellite interference suppression technology, and the orbital evaluation of commercial-grade electronic components to achieve low-cost long-life. They were developed by the Institute of Microsatellite Innovation of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. They are equipped with laser communication payloads, Ka-band communication payloads, and Hall electric thrusters to carry out high-speed inter-satellite laser communications and multi-beam communications.
The satellites were launched in August 2021 on a CZ-6 rocket from Taiyuan.
Nation: | Germany |
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Type / Application: | Communication |
Operator: | KLEO Connect |
Contractors: | CAS |
Equipment: | Ka-band payload, laser communication payload |
Configuration: | |
Propulsion: | Hall effect thrusters |
Power: | solar arrays, batteries |
Lifetime: | |
Mass: | |
Orbit: |
Satellite | COSPAR | Date | LS | Launch Vehicle | Remarks | |
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KL-Beta A | 2021-070A | 05.08.2021 | TY LC-16 | CZ-6 | with KL-Beta B | |
KL-Beta B | 2021-070B | 05.08.2021 | TY LC-16 | CZ-6 | with KL-Beta A |