SOFIA (Bulgaria), June 23, 2017 – Bulgaria Sat today announced the successful launch of BulgariaSat-1, the first geostationary communications satellite in Bulgaria's history.
The satellite was successfully launched by SpaceX at 22:10 Bulgarian time on June 23 from Launch Complex 39A (LC-39A) at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida aboard a Falcon 9 launch vehicle.
Following launch, BulgariaSat-1 successfully completed its initial post-launch operations and deployed its solar arrays as planned. The spacecraft is expected to begin its transfer toward its final geostationary orbital slot at 1.9°E on June 24.
"When we embarked on this space project more than ten years ago, we knew it would require patience, dedication, and an exceptional team. Today we have successfully placed Bulgaria's first communications satellite on its path to geostationary orbit, taking an important step toward positioning our country among Europe's spacefaring nations and supporting the development of high-technology industries and expertise in Bulgaria."
"When a Bulgarian company succeeds at this level, it is also a success for Bulgarian business and for Bulgaria as a whole," added Zayakov.
"SpaceX is proud to partner with Bulsatcom on today's historic launch of BulgariaSat-1," said Gwynne Shotwell, President and Chief Operating Officer of SpaceX. "On behalf of everyone at SpaceX, I would like to congratulate the entire team on a successful mission."
Orbital Positioning and Testing
BulgariaSat-1 is expected to reach its assigned orbital position at 1.9°E on July 3. Bulgarian engineering teams based in Sofia and Palo Alto, California, are actively supporting the spacecraft's orbit-raising operations and in-orbit deployment procedures.
Following arrival at its orbital slot, the satellite will undergo a comprehensive in-orbit testing campaign to verify the performance of all onboard systems before entering commercial service.
"The successful positioning of BulgariaSat-1 will represent another major achievement for our team and for Bulgaria. If all remaining milestones proceed according to plan, BulgariaSat-1 will enter operational service in early August," said Zayakov.
Extended Operational Life
The satellite was launched into a supersynchronous transfer orbit, allowing it to conserve onboard propellant during orbit-raising maneuvers. This trajectory optimization is expected to extend the spacecraft's operational life beyond 20 years.
Built on Space Systems/Loral's proven SSL 1300 platform, BulgariaSat-1 will provide direct-to-home television broadcasting, telecommunications, and connectivity services across the Balkans and other European markets.
About Bulgaria Sat
Bulgaria Sat is Bulgaria's only satellite operator and a pioneer in the country's space industry. The company provides reliable and secure satellite communications solutions to broadcast, telecommunications, enterprise, and government customers.
Headquartered in Sofia, Bulgaria, Bulgaria Sat owns and operates BulgariaSat-1, the first Bulgarian geostationary communications satellite, delivering satellite communications services across Europe and the wider region.