Astra 2B/Astra 1M

Astra 2B is a direct-broadcast TV satellite operated by SES Astra. Both the spacecraft (based on the Eurostar E2000+ model) and its payload were designed and built by EADS Astrium. The satellite was launched by an Ariane 5 on 14 September 2000.

The Astra 2B satellite is positioned in geostationary orbit at 28.2° East, Astra's prime orbital position for Direct-to-Home services in the UK and Ireland, providing capacity mainly for the transmission of broadcast and broadband multimedia services to consumer audiences. The payload includes 28 active high power Ku-band transponders (end-of-life).

The spacecraft's launch mass was 3,300 kg and the spacecraft power is more than 7 kW. Astra 2B has an expected lifetime of 14 years.

Scheduled for launch into 19.2° East in 2008, Astra 1M will provide a full range of television broadcasting services, including HDTV and other advanced audiovisual as well as broadband services with a pan-European coverage. Astrium is again prime contractor, responsible for the design and build of the spacecraft and the supply of both the payload and the Eurostar E3000 platform.

Astra 1M will carry 36 transponders covering the Ku FSS and BSS frequency bands. It will have a launch mass of 5,300 kg, a solar array span of 35 metres once deployed in orbit, and spacecraft power of 10 kW at end of its planned 15-year service life.