Zhongxing-18 (Chinasat-18)
Long March 3B/E
China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation
Mission
Zhongxing-18 (Chinasat-18)
- Type: Communications
- Orbit: Geostationary Transfer Orbit
- Launch Cost: $70,000,000
Zhongxing-18 (Chinasat-18) is a Chinese communications satellite based upon a DFH-4E bus.
The Chinasat-18 provides Ku commercial communications services with 30 Ku-band transponders, Ka broadband communication services with 14 Ka-band MSS spot user beams and exploring Ka-band broadcasting services with 2 Ka BSS-band transponders within the service coverage areas.
Location
Rocket
China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation Long March 3B/E
The Long March 3B / E (G2) (CZ-3B / E) is one of the most successful medium-range launchers and the strongest variant of the CZ-3 series.
It was specially developed for the transport of heavy communications satellites into a geostationary transfer orbit.
The additional designation “E” stands for a higher payload fairing, stretched boosters and extended fuel tanks at the first stage, over the CZ-3B.
Agency
China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation
The China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) is the main contractor for the Chinese space program. It is state-owned and has a number of subordinate entities which design, develop and manufacture a range of spacecraft, launch vehicles, strategic and tactical missile systems, and ground equipment. It was officially established in July 1999 as part of a Chinese government reform drive, having previously been one part of the former China Aerospace Corporation. Various incarnations of the program date back to 1956.