45th Space Wing supports SpaceX launch of AsiaSat 8 satellite

CAPE CANAVERAL AIR FORCE STATION, Fla. (AFNS) -- The 45th Space Wing supported Space Exploration Technologies' successful launch of their Falcon 9 rocket carrying the AsiaSat 8 satellite from Space Launch Complex 40 at 4 a.m. Aug. 5.

AsiaSat 8 is a Fixed Satellite Services satellite built for Asia Satellite Telecommunications Company Limited, or AsiaSat, serving Asia, the Middle East, and Australia. Fixed Satellite Services satellites provide broadcast and/or communications in a geosynchronous orbit.

The satellite is designed on the SS/L 1300 satellite platform, which provides the flexibility for a broad range of applications and technology advances.

A combined team of military members, government civilians and contractors from across the 45th Space Wing provided vital launch support to the SpaceX mission, including weather forecasts, launch and range operations, security, safety and public affairs.

"What an exciting, busy time to be working here on the Space Coast," said Brig. Gen. Nina Armagno, a 45th Space Wing commander, who also served as the mission's launch decision authority.

"We would like to thank SpaceX and all our outstanding mission partners who made this mission a success," she said. "I also want to thank Team Patrick-Cape for an outstanding and very professional performance."

The satellite will have 24 Ku-band transponders and a Ka-band beam. The high-power transponders will enable the use of small antennas on the ground. The satellite is designed to provide service for 15 years or more.