MTSAT 1-R - A Multifunctional Satellite for Japan - and the Asia-Pacific Region

Paper number

IAC-05-B3.2.04

Author

Mr. Kenneth Faller, Space Systems/Loral, United States

Year

2005

Abstract

MTSAT 1-R is a state-of-the-art multi-functional satellite which will provide meteorological and Air Traffic Management (ATM) services to the Asia-Pacific region. The spacecraft was launched on February 26, 2005 from the Tanegashima Space Center on a RSC H-IIA rocket. Its operational geostationary longitude is 140 degrees East. 

The meteorological payload is based on a new generation multi-spectral scanning imager, featuring an active cooler which maintains infrared detectors at cryogenic temperatures. The satellite will gather and distribute critical weather information including cloud imagery, cloud and water vapor distributions, cloud-motion wind vector, sea surface temperature and information on typhoons and other severe weather conditions. The meteorological payload broadcasts imaging data products using transmitters in the S-band, while communications with data collection platforms is performed in the UHF frequency band.

The Aeronautical payload provides communications, navigation and surveillance for air traffic management (CNS/ATM). The system allows communications between air traffic controllers and aircraft enroute over the western Pacific and East Asia. An on-board satellite digital processor allows autonomous traffic routing, while communications links provide automated dependent surveillance to assist air traffic controllers. The system uses L-band mobile links and Ku-band and Ka-band feeder links.

The spacecraft was built by Space Systems/Loral using a version of the 1300 bus modified for the MTSAT specific payloads. The satellite is characterized by its single 3-panel solar array and counterbalancing solar sail. In this paper, the satellite mission is described and the spacecraft design and performance is presented.

Abstract document

IAC-05-B3.2.04.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-05-B3.2.04.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.