Author Topic: SpaceX Falcon 9 : Telstar 18 Vantage/Apstar-5C : Sept. 10, 2018 - UPDATES (Read 63494 times)

Chris Bergin · « **on:** 08/20/2018 11:02 am »

UPDATE ONLY thread for Telstar 18 Vantage/Apstar-5C

NSF Threads for Telstar 18 Vantage/Apstar-5C : Discussion / Updates / Party
NSF Articles for Telstar 18 Vantage/Apstar-5C :
https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/?s=TELSTAR

Successful launch September 10, 2018 at 00:45 EDT (04:45 UTC) on Falcon 9 (new booster 1049) from SLC-40 at Cape Canaveral. Payload mass 7060kg. ASDS landing was successful.

Other SpaceX resources on NASASpaceflight:
SpaceX News Articles (Recent) / SpaceX News Articles from 2006 (Including numerous exclusive Elon interviews)
SpaceX Dragon Articles / SpaceX Missions Section (with Launch Manifest and info on past and future missions)
L2 SpaceX Section

Telesat Press Release
SSL Press Release
Telesat: Telstar 18 Vantage page

Telstar 18 Vantage/Apstar-5C on Gunter's Space Page

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #1 on:** 08/20/2018 11:07 am »

Waiting on the SF flow. No movement towards this milestone at this time, so we'll know if they can make required <> Tuesday target (to make the 25th) when the TEL moves.

zubenelgenubi · « **Reply #2 on:** 08/21/2018 06:10 pm »

FWIW, SFN Launch Schedule, updated August 21, moved this launch date from August 25 to TBD.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #3 on:** 08/22/2018 11:28 am »

Big slip. Now NET September 9 on the Eastern Range (via L2).

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #4 on:** 08/27/2018 05:28 pm »

For (travel) planning purposes only, the SpaceX Falcon 9 launch with Telstar 18 Vantage/Apstar-5C is currently appearing on the Eastern Range as September 8 (23:23 opening of a four hour window) via L2.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #5 on:** 09/03/2018 10:27 pm »

Usual routine. Look for a booster on the pad and we go from there. Static Fire test will be either Tuesday or Wednesday - weather permitting.

ChrisGebhardt · « **Reply #6 on:** 09/04/2018 06:48 pm »

So how are we all reading this:

Quote

@EmreKelly
Launch hazard area issued for this weekend's #SpaceX Telstar 18V launch from CCAFS. Teams targeting early Sunday (9/9) for liftoff, followed by OCISLY drone ship landing. LHA in effect from 2115 ET on 9/8 to 0400 ET on 9/9 (0015 to 0800 UTC).
https://twitter.com/EmreKelly/status/1037014420717744128

Not sure if I'm reading this right. So launch has adjusted a few minutes, which now puts it just after midnight EDT on Sunday, 9 September? Or are we still at roughly 23:23 EDT on 8 September and this another one of the 45th's EDT/UTC mismatches?

What's the throwing me is the "Rescheduled to 09 Sept" reference AND the green Safety Zone B - which I seem to recall goes live 90mins before window open. If it goes live at 22:43 EDT on 8 Sept., that places window open at 00:13 EDT on 9 Sept. now.

gongora · « **Reply #7 on:** 09/04/2018 07:37 pm »

Tweet from Emre Kelly:

Quote

Update to this: 45th's use of 9/9 is based on UTC times, so if you're local, the launch window will actually open on Saturday, 9/8 at 2328 ET (0328 UTC).

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #8 on:** 09/04/2018 07:48 pm »

Booster is vertical!

https://twitter.com/TheEvangineer/status/1037063801349255168

Raul · « **Reply #9 on:** 09/05/2018 11:45 am »

Telstar-18V Launch Hazard Areas based on issued NOTMAR/NOTAM messages, valid for Sep 09 (alternatively Sep 10) 03:23-07:59 UTC.

Appropriate FCC application for SpaceX Mission 1398 states planned ASDS position for B1049 landing 655km downrange.

FutureSpaceTourist · « **Reply #10 on:** 09/05/2018 01:21 pm »

Launch weather forecast is 60% GO (the long launch window will hopefully make it easier):

Quote

Launch day probability of violating launch weather constraints: 40%
Primary concern(s): Thick Cloud Layer Rule, Cumulus Cloud Rule

Delay day probability of violating launch weather constraints: 40%
Primary concern(s): Thick Cloud Layer Rule, Cumulus Cloud Rule

FutureSpaceTourist · « **Reply #11 on:** 09/05/2018 01:23 pm »

Airspace closure area

FutureSpaceTourist · « **Reply #12 on:** 09/05/2018 01:52 pm »

@murphypak live streaming for static fire:

Quote

#SpaceX 🚀 19V Static Fire 🔥 🚀

https://twitter.com/murphypak/status/1037337041980350469

Periscope link:

https://www.pscp.tv/murphypak/1DXGyYaEXBdGM

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #13 on:** 09/05/2018 02:06 pm »

Static Fire. Wind must have stopped Alica's view of seeing it, but we have people who have a closer view noting it fired up.

FutureSpaceTourist · « **Reply #14 on:** 09/05/2018 02:22 pm »

Quote

Static fire test of Falcon 9 complete—targeting September 8 launch of Telstar 18 VANTAGE from Pad 40 in Florida.

https://twitter.com/SpaceX/status/1037345042434646021

gongora · « **Reply #15 on:** 09/05/2018 04:02 pm »

Tweet from Emre Kelly:

Quote

Side note for Saturday's #SpaceX launch: It's not the heaviest #Falcon9 payload to date, which was secured by TELSTAR 19V in July at 7,075 kg, but it's close – TELSTAR 18V's launch mass clocks in at 7,060 kg. Destination is GTO and will serve Asia + Pacific.

FutureSpaceTourist · « **Reply #16 on:** 09/05/2018 04:23 pm »

Finally a picture:

Quote

F9/Telstar18V: SpaceX confirms a good hot fire test today of a Falcon 9 rocket at CCAFS pad 40; launch of Telstar 18V targeted for 11:28pm EDT Saturday; here's an iPhone view of hotfire test from 10 miles away

https://twitter.com/cbs_spacenews/status/1037349185966751744

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #17 on:** 09/05/2018 06:58 pm »

Article for the Static Fire. Mixing it up again with the SpaceX Fleet element:

https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2018/09/falcon-9-fires-up-astronauts-spacex-fleet/

Many thanks to @julia_bergeron for the SpaceX Fleet and Astros pics.

FutureSpaceTourist · « **Reply #18 on:** 09/06/2018 01:32 pm »

L-2 launch weather forecast, no change still 60% GO:

Quote

Launch day probability of violating launch weather constraints: 40%
Primary concern(s): Thick Cloud Layer Rule, Cumulus Cloud Rule

Delay day probability of violating launch weather constraints: 40%
Primary concern(s): Thick Cloud Layer Rule, Cumulus Cloud Rule

gongora · « **Reply #19 on:** 09/06/2018 04:23 pm »

Tweet from Stephen Clark:

Quote

Telesat official says the Falcon 9 launch with the Telstar 18 VANTAGE telecom satellite is slipping — was to be Saturday night. No new target launch date has been confirmed.

IntoTheVoid · « **Reply #20 on:** 09/06/2018 09:03 pm »

https://twitter.com/jeff_foust/status/1037805405915762688

Quote from: Jeff Foust

Shotwell says next Falcon 9 launch still scheduled for this weekend (amid rumors of a delay.)

gongora · « **Reply #21 on:** 09/06/2018 10:25 pm »

Tweet from Jeff Foust:

Quote

Shotwell confirmed after the panel that the Falcon 9/Telstar 18 Vantage launch slipped a day to Sunday night (EDT), didn’t specify a reason.

tvg98 · « **Reply #22 on:** 09/06/2018 11:27 pm »

Quote

Now targeting September 9 launch of Telstar 18 VANTAGE from Pad 40 in Florida. Rocket and payload are healthy; additional time will be used to complete pre-flight checkouts.

https://twitter.com/SpaceX/status/1037843911870316545

FutureSpaceTourist · « **Reply #23 on:** 09/07/2018 03:26 pm »

With 1 day slip, L-2 launch weather forecast remains 60% GO, as does delay day:

Quote

Launch day probability of violating launch weather constraints: 40%
Primary concern(s): Thick Cloud Layer Rule, Cumulus Cloud Rule

Delay day probability of violating launch weather constraints: 40%
Primary concern(s): Thick Cloud Layer Rule, Cumulus Cloud Rule

FutureSpaceTourist · « **Reply #24 on:** 09/08/2018 04:11 pm »

L-1 launch weather forecast remains 60% GO:

Quote

Launch day probability of violating launch weather constraints: 40%
Primary concern(s): Thick Cloud Layer Rule, Cumulus Cloud Rule

Delay day probability of violating launch weather constraints: 40%
Primary concern(s): Thick Cloud Layer Rule, Cumulus Cloud Rule

FutureSpaceTourist · « **Reply #25 on:** 09/09/2018 05:51 am »

Press kit and stream are now up:

Edit: stream link changed, see next post
Further edit: added mission patch from press kit

scr00chy · « **Reply #26 on:** 09/09/2018 04:53 pm »

New/fixed webcast link:

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #27 on:** 09/09/2018 04:54 pm »

William Graham's feature article:
https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2018/09/spacex-falcon-telstar-18v-launch/

Will update the lead photo when we get one of 18V on the pad.

FutureSpaceTourist · « **Reply #28 on:** 09/09/2018 07:35 pm »

Voila, photo from SpaceX website

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #29 on:** 09/10/2018 02:31 am »

SFN:
Countdown clocks at the Kennedy Space Center have been reset for T-minus 2 hours and counting, suggesting liftoff is now set for 12 a.m. EDT (0400 GMT).

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #30 on:** 09/10/2018 02:39 am »

@EmreKelly

No confirmation yet, but judging from countdown clocks at nearby KSC, SpaceX is now targeting midnight (0400 UTC) for #Falcon9 liftoff from CCAFS.

daveglo · « **Reply #31 on:** 09/10/2018 02:39 am »

Weather radar from KSC. Non-professional opinion: sketchy.

https://science.ksc.nasa.gov/weather/2018/Sep/09/2200/kradar.gif

catdlr · « **Reply #32 on:** 09/10/2018 02:44 am »

SFN:

09/09/2018 19:34

A lightning advisory has been issued at the Kennedy Space Center after several storm cells popped up in the last few minutes over Cape Canaveral. The countdown clock continues ticking toward launch time of 12 a.m. EDT (0400 GMT).

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #33 on:** 09/10/2018 02:50 am »

Livestream has been updated with the new launch time.

catdlr · « **Reply #34 on:** 09/10/2018 02:56 am »

SFN:

09/09/2018 19:50

T-minus 70 minutes and counting. SpaceX is holding off fueling at this time as foul weather impacts Cape Canaveral.

catdlr · « **Reply #35 on:** 09/10/2018 02:57 am »

SFN:

09/09/2018 19:48

Here's a view of the weather radar at Cape Canaveral a few minutes ago.

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #36 on:** 09/10/2018 02:57 am »

SpaceX
‏Verified account @SpaceX
4 minutes ago

All systems go for launch of Telstar 18 VANTAGE; team is monitoring weather conditions. Targeting liftoff at 12:00 a.m. EDT, 4:00 UTC. Launch webcast will go live about 15 minutes before liftoff → http://spacex.com/webcast

https://twitter.com/SpaceX/status/1038983491277402112

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #37 on:** 09/10/2018 03:18 am »

Hmmm:

@cbs_spacenews

F9/Telstar18V: Now 45 minutes to launch at 12am EDT; lightning advisories are still in effect across Cape Canaveral

daveglo · « **Reply #38 on:** 09/10/2018 03:20 am »

Radar still ugly.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #39 on:** 09/10/2018 03:21 am »

Moving to the right another 30 mins.

https://twitter.com/SpaceBrendan/status/1038990665210843142

Wolfram66 · « **Reply #40 on:** 09/10/2018 03:21 am »

Quote from: daveglo on 09/10/2018 02:39 am

Weather radar from KSC. Non-professional opinion: sketchy.

https://science.ksc.nasa.gov/weather/2018/Sep/09/2200/kradar.gif

NWS feed https://radar.weather.gov/ridge/radar_lite.php?rid=mlb&product=NCR&loop=yes

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #41 on:** 09/10/2018 03:22 am »

T-38 minutes. The poll for propellant loading should be happening now.

ZachS09 · « **Reply #42 on:** 09/10/2018 03:23 am »

Quote from: Steven Pietrobon on 09/10/2018 03:22 am

T-38 minutes. The poll for propellant loading should be happening now.

Not happening yet; new T0 now 04:30 UTC.

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #43 on:** 09/10/2018 03:27 am »

Thanks Zach. Didn't see Chris's post as it was on the previous page. Webcast now showing new launch time.

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #44 on:** 09/10/2018 03:29 am »

SpaceX
‏Verified account @SpaceX
24 seconds ago

New T-0 of 12:30 a.m. EDT, 4:30 UTC for weather. Vehicle and payload still look good for launch.

https://twitter.com/SpaceX/status/1038992538865041408

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #45 on:** 09/10/2018 03:45 am »

@SpaceBrendan

Per SpaceX: Targeting 1245 AM ET for new launch, that's due to weather and clouds. #SpaceX #Telstar18 @NASASpaceflight

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #46 on:** 09/10/2018 03:48 am »

New launch time confirmed on webcast.

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #47 on:** 09/10/2018 03:56 am »

SpaceX
‏Verified account @SpaceX
5 minutes ago

Pushing T-0 to 12:45 a.m. EDT, 4:45 UTC for weather. Vehicle and payload remain in good health for launch of Telstar 18 VANTAGE.

https://twitter.com/SpaceX/status/1038998237724594177

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #48 on:** 09/10/2018 04:05 am »

Coming up on the point of polling to begin fueling.

catdlr · « **Reply #49 on:** 09/10/2018 04:06 am »

SFN

09/09/2018 20:54

The Phase 2 lightning advisory has been lifted across Cape Canaveral as thunderstorms continue moving northeast.

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #50 on:** 09/10/2018 04:07 am »

T-38 minutes. The poll for propellant loading should be happening now (if there has not been another delay!).

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #51 on:** 09/10/2018 04:10 am »

T-35 minutes. If the poll go ahead has been given, then RP-1 loading and stage one LOX loading should be starting now.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #52 on:** 09/10/2018 04:11 am »

William Harwood

@cbs_spacenews

F9/Telstar18V: Now 35 minutes to launch; propellant loading is getting underway

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #53 on:** 09/10/2018 04:24 am »

We have funky music!

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #54 on:** 09/10/2018 04:29 am »

T-16 minutes. Stage 2 LOX loading should be starting now.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #55 on:** 09/10/2018 04:32 am »

And we're live!

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #56 on:** 09/10/2018 04:32 am »

Webcast has started.

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #57 on:** 09/10/2018 04:33 am »

T-12 minutes. Using new booster.

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #58 on:** 09/10/2018 04:34 am »

T-11 minutes.

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #59 on:** 09/10/2018 04:35 am »

T-10 minutes.

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #60 on:** 09/10/2018 04:36 am »

T-9 minutes. Working no significant issues. Spacecraft on internal power.

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #61 on:** 09/10/2018 04:37 am »

T-8 minutes. Weather looks good. Can reload for another attempt if necessary.

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #62 on:** 09/10/2018 04:38 am »

T-7 minutes. Engine chill should be starting now.

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #63 on:** 09/10/2018 04:39 am »

T-6 minutes.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #64 on:** 09/10/2018 04:40 am »

Great view of the payload.

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #65 on:** 09/10/2018 04:40 am »

T-5 minutes. Pressing for strongback retract.

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #66 on:** 09/10/2018 04:41 am »

T-4 minutes. Recline is underway. TVC motions acceptable.

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #67 on:** 09/10/2018 04:42 am »

T-3 minutes.

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #68 on:** 09/10/2018 04:43 am »

T-2 minutes. Stage 2 LOX load complete. Falcon 9 is on internal power.

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #69 on:** 09/10/2018 04:44 am »

T-1 minute. Falcon 9 is in startup. Go for launch!

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #70 on:** 09/10/2018 04:45 am »

Liftoff!

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #71 on:** 09/10/2018 04:46 am »

LAUNCH!!

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #72 on:** 09/10/2018 04:46 am »

T+1 minute.

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #73 on:** 09/10/2018 04:47 am »

T+2 minutes.

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #74 on:** 09/10/2018 04:48 am »

First stage separation.

T+2 minutes.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #75 on:** 09/10/2018 04:48 am »

Staging 1-2.

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #76 on:** 09/10/2018 04:49 am »

Fairing separation

T+4 minutes.

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #77 on:** 09/10/2018 04:50 am »

T+5 minutes.

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #78 on:** 09/10/2018 04:51 am »

T+6 minutes.

Stage 1 entry startup.

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #79 on:** 09/10/2018 04:52 am »

Entry burn.

T+7 minutes.

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #80 on:** 09/10/2018 04:53 am »

T+8 minutes.

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #81 on:** 09/10/2018 04:54 am »

Nominal orbit and touchdown!

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #82 on:** 09/10/2018 04:55 am »

Last view before landing. Landing confirmed!

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #83 on:** 09/10/2018 04:56 am »

T+10 minutes. Upcoming events.

00:26:17 2nd stage engine restarts
00:27:00 2nd stage engine cutoff (SECO-2)
00:32:01 Telstar 18 VANTAGE satellite deployment

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #84 on:** 09/10/2018 04:59 am »

T+15 minutes. New view of orbital track.

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #85 on:** 09/10/2018 05:05 am »

T+20 minutes. Heading towards Africa.

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #86 on:** 09/10/2018 05:10 am »

AOS Gabon.

T+25 minutes. One minute and 17 seconds to second ignition.

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #87 on:** 09/10/2018 05:11 am »

Ignition!

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #88 on:** 09/10/2018 05:12 am »

Cutoff! Little longer than expected.

Lar · « **Reply #89 on:** 09/10/2018 05:13 am »

Second burn complete

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #90 on:** 09/10/2018 05:14 am »

Nominal orbit insertion.

First stage on droneship.

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #91 on:** 09/10/2018 05:16 am »

Views of engine and spacecraft.

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #92 on:** 09/10/2018 05:16 am »

T+31 minutes. AOS South Africa. One minute and one second to separation.

LouScheffer · « **Reply #93 on:** 09/10/2018 05:17 am »

Looks like cutoff at 33433 km/hr = 9286 m/s. Add 402 m/s for Earth rotation. Total 9688 m/s, for about a 17000 km apogee, assuming no inclination change.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #94 on:** 09/10/2018 05:17 am »

View of the booster.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #95 on:** 09/10/2018 05:18 am »

S/C Sep:

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #96 on:** 09/10/2018 05:18 am »

S/C Sep! SpaceX Falcon 9 successfully launched Telstar 18V.

ARTICLE:
https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2018/09/spacex-falcon-telstar-18v-launch/ … - by William Graham.

Many thanks to Steven and all for the coverage.

Off to bed at 6:20 am lol.

All congrats and such go into the other thread, this remains update only.

Lar · « **Reply #97 on:** 09/10/2018 05:19 am »

Appears to be a good deploy.

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #98 on:** 09/10/2018 05:20 am »

Spacecraft separation! (got blocked by the 5 second rule there :-)

FutureSpaceTourist · « **Reply #99 on:** 09/10/2018 05:20 am »

Quote

SpaceX’s #Falcon9 rocket launches #Telstar18V at 12:45 A.M. this morning, tracing an incredible reflection in the waters north of Cape Canaveral.

https://twitter.com/johnkrausphotos/status/1039015220071608320

Edit to add:

Quote

#Falcon9 and #Telstar18V streak above sailboats moored along Indian River Lagoon. #SpaceX (Marcus Cote/ Space Coast Times) Prints available using the link in my bio!

https://twitter.com/marcuscotephoto/status/1039016569345662976

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #100 on:** 09/10/2018 05:21 am »

End of webcast.

SciNews · « **Reply #101 on:** 09/10/2018 05:27 am »

recap
Falcon 9 launch & landing

Telstar 18 VANTAGE deployment, including images of first stage

FutureSpaceTourist · « **Reply #102 on:** 09/10/2018 06:03 am »

Launch photo from SpaceX website

cygnusx112 · « **Reply #103 on:** 09/10/2018 06:12 am »

I took this one from 401 just outside the CCAFS gate.

FutureSpaceTourist · « **Reply #104 on:** 09/10/2018 06:17 am »

Quote

Telesat confirms the Telstar 18 VANTAGE/APSTAR 5C communications satellite has contacted ground control after tonight’s launch from Cape Canaveral. spaceflightnow.com/2018/09/09/fal…

https://twitter.com/spaceflightnow/status/1039025307578245121

FutureSpaceTourist · « **Reply #105 on:** 09/10/2018 08:12 am »

Quote

The incomparable @cbphoto1 was also on scene as #falcon9, #telstar18V set sail from Cape Canaveral AFS early Monday...

https://twitter.com/flatoday_jdean/status/1039032438591238144

input~2 · « **Reply #106 on:** 09/10/2018 12:57 pm »

A first object has been cataloged:

2018-069B/43612 in 259 x 18060 km x 26.95°

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #107 on:** 09/10/2018 01:03 pm »

Advanced High Throughput Satellite (HTS) Built by Maxar’s SSL for Telesat Successfully Begins On-Orbit Operations

Optimized performance and capacity on Telstar 18 VANTAGE demonstrate SSL’s leadership in powering the new space economy

PALO ALTO, Calif. – September 10, 2018 – SSL, a Maxar Technologies company (formerly MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates Ltd.) (NYSE: MAXR; TSX: MAXR), and a leading provider of innovative satellites and spacecraft systems, today announced that an advanced communications satellite it built for Telesat, a leading global satellite operator, was launched yesterday night and is successfully performing post-launch maneuvers according to plan. The satellite, called Telstar 18 VANTAGE, deployed its solar arrays on schedule following its launch aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 launch vehicle from the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida.

Telstar 18 VANTAGE will begin firing its main thruster later today in order to propel the spacecraft toward its final geostationary (GEO) orbit. The advanced performance and capacity built into Telstar 18 VANTAGE, to serve the growing demand for broadband connectivity, demonstrate SSL’s leadership in partnering with its customers to power the new space economy.

“This is our second very advanced high throughput satellite that we provided to Telesat this summer,” said Dario Zamarian, group president of SSL. “I would like to thank Telesat for putting its confidence in SSL and for working with us as a team to make this mission a success. The exceptional performance and capacity SSL integrated into Telstar 18 VANTAGE demonstrates how we, together with our long term colleagues at Telesat, are providing next-generation space systems that improve lives here on Earth.”

Telstar 18 VANTAGE is one of a new generation of Telesat satellites with capacity optimized to serve bandwidth intensive applications increasingly in demand by users worldwide. SSL incorporated multiple technology innovations, including additive manufacturing, electric propulsion, and a variety of next generation systems to maximize the satellite’s broadband service capabilities and provide Telesat customers with a competitive edge in meeting growing demand from mobility, enterprise and telecom markets across the Asia Pacific region.

Once in service at 138 degrees East, the satellite will be in an ideal orbital position for connecting Asia to the Americas. Telstar 18 VANTAGE replaces and expands on Telstar 18 and will provide extensive C-band capacity over Asia, powerful Ku-band HTS spotbeams over Indonesia and Malaysia, and five additional Ku-band beams – innovative payloads that will deliver a new level of performance and value for satellite broadband requirements. Telesat partnered with APT Satellite of Hong Kong in the design and deployment of this spacecraft, which APT calls Apstar-5C.

“As the third high throughput satellite in our global fleet, Telstar 18 VANTAGE will provide important competitive advantages for our customers across Asia,” said Dan Goldberg, President and CEO, Telesat. “SSL has been a trusted partner for many years and I would like to congratulate the entire team for the delivery of this complex and advanced spacecraft.”

With the launch of Telstar 18 VANTAGE there are now 90 satellites built by SSL in GEO orbit. This number represents more commercial GEOs built by SSL than by any other manufacturer.

Also of note, the satellite shares a name with the 2018 World Cup gameplay ball, which was named Telstar 18. This was a tribute to the World Cup ball used in 1970, which was the first World Cup to be broadcast live around the world over satellite.

About Telesat

Telesat is a leading global satellite operator, providing reliable and secure satellite-delivered communications solutions worldwide to broadcast, telecom, corporate and government customers. Headquartered in Ottawa, Canada, with offices and facilities around the world, the company’s state-of-the-art fleet consists of 17 GEO satellites, the Canadian payload on ViaSat-1 and one Phase 1 LEO satellite which is the start of Telesat’s planned global LEO satellite constellation that will offer low latency, high throughput broadband services. Telesat is also a leading technical consultant providing high value expertise and support to satellite operators, insurers and other industry participants on a global basis. Privately held, Telesat’s principal shareholders are Canada’s Public Sector Pension Investment Board and Loral Space & Communications Inc. (NASDAQ: LORL).

About SSL

SSL, based in Palo Alto, California, is a leading provider of advanced spacecraft systems, with broad expertise to support commercial and government satellite operators and innovative space missions. The company designs and manufactures spacecraft for services such as direct-to-home television, video content distribution, broadband internet, mobile communications, in-orbit servicing, space exploration, and Earth observation. As a Silicon Valley innovator for 60 years, SSL’s advanced product line includes state-of-the-art small satellites, and sophisticated robotics and autonomous solutions for remote operations. SSL is a Maxar Technologies company (NYSE: MAXR; TSX: MAXR). For more information, visit www.sslmda.com.

About Maxar Technologies

As a global leader of advanced space technology solutions, Maxar Technologies (formerly MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates) is at the nexus of the new space economy, developing and sustaining the infrastructure and delivering the information, services, systems that unlock the promise of space for commercial and government markets. As a trusted partner, Maxar Technologies provides vertically-integrated capabilities and expertise including satellites, Earth imagery, robotics, geospatial data and analytics to help customers anticipate and address their most complex mission-critical challenges with confidence. With more than 6,500 employees in over 30 global locations, the Maxar Technologies portfolio of commercial space brands includes MDA, SSL, DigitalGlobe and Radiant Solutions. Every day, billions of people rely on Maxar to communicate, share information and data, and deliver insights that Build a Better World. Maxar trades on the Toronto Stock Exchange and New York Stock Exchange as MAXR. For more information, visit www.maxar.com.

LouScheffer · « **Reply #108 on:** 09/10/2018 02:55 pm »

Quote from: input~2 on 09/10/2018 12:57 pm

A first object has been cataloged:

2018-069B/43612 in 259 x 18060 km x 26.95°

Then about 2267 m/s to get to GEO. 468 m/s at perigee to raise apogee to GEO , then 1799 m/s at apogee to circularize and remove inclination.

SciNews · « **Reply #109 on:** 09/10/2018 02:59 pm »

Press release from Telesat

Quote

Telesat Successfully Launches Telstar 18 VANTAGE, Powerful Satellite Bringing New Coverages and HTS Capacity to the Asia Pacific Region
Innovative C and Ku payloads will meet growing demand formobility,

enterprise and telecom services from 138 degrees East

Cape Canaveral, Florida, September 10, 2018 – Telesat announced today the successful launch of its new Telstar 18 VANTAGE high throughput satellite (HTS) aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. Liftoff occurred on Monday, September 10th, from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Built by SSL, a Maxar Technologies Company, Telstar 18 VANTAGE is the third HTS in Telesat’s global fleet with capacity that delivers a new level of performance and value for satellite broadband requirements on land, at sea and in the air.

Telstar 18 VANTAGE will replace and expand on the capabilities of Telesat’s Telstar 18 satellite with its extensive C-band capacity over Asia, its Ku-band HTS spot beams over Indonesia and Malaysia, and its five additional regional Ku-band beams. Operating from 138 degrees East, the satellite’s coverage reaches across Asia all the way to Hawaii – in both C and Ku-band – enabling direct connectivity between any point in Asia and the Americas. Its innovative Ku-band payloads of HTS spot beams and focused regional beams will provide customers operating in Southeast Asia, Mongolia, Australia & New Zealand, and the North Pacific Ocean with greater choice and flexibility to serve today’s bandwidth intensive applications.

Telesat VANTAGE satellites combine focused regional beams with powerful HTS spot beams enabling users to maximize throughout and spectral efficiency while optimizing network performance. By implementing these advances on Telstar 18 VANTAGE, Telesat customers across the Asia Pacific region now have a competitive edge in meeting growing demand for satellite broadband from aero and maritime service providers, enterprise network operators and leading telecom companies.

“Telstar 18 VANTAGE is the latest example of how Telesat’s innovative payload designs provide our customers with the advantages they need to compete successfully in today’s satellite service markets,” said Dan Goldberg, Telesat’s President and CEO. “Telstar 18 VANTAGE is a state-of-the art spacecraft that not only replaces Telstar 18, a satellite in wide use across Asia and the Pacific, but brings far greater capabilities including Ku-band mobility coverage and HTS spot beams that will allow Telesat to grow our presence in the region. We would like to thank SpaceX for the successful launch of Telstar 18 VANTAGE and for their dedication and professionalism throughout this mission.”

Telesat’s Newest Satellite

SpaceX successfully launched Telstar 18 VANTAGE to Geostationary Transfer Orbit (GTO) aboard a new Falcon 9 rocket. Liftoff was from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Shortly after liftoff, Telesat’s newest satellite with a launch mass of 7,011 kg was deployed from the Falcon 9.

Telstar 18 VANTAGE is expected to enter commercial service after it has successfully completed orbit raising and comprehensive in-orbit testing. As previously announced, Telesat has partnered with APT Satellite of Hong Kong in the design and procurement of this new spacecraft, which APT calls Apstar-5C. The satellite has a 15 year design life.

About Telesat (www.telesat.com)

Telesat is a leading global satellite operator, providing reliable and secure satellite-delivered communications solutions worldwide to broadcast, telecom, corporate and government customers. Headquartered in Ottawa, Canada, with offices and facilities around the world, the company’s state-of-the-art fleet consists of 17 GEO satellites, the Canadian payload on ViaSat-1 and one Phase 1 LEO satellite which is the start of Telesat’s planned global LEO satellite constellation that will offer low latency, high throughput broadband services. Telesat is also a leading technical consultant providing high value expertise and support to satellite operators, insurers and other industry participants on a global basis. Privately held, Telesat’s principal shareholders are Canada’s Public Sector Pension Investment Board and Loral Space & Communications Inc. (NASDAQ: LORL).

Forward-Looking Statements Safe Harbor

This news release contains statements that are not based on historical fact and are ‘‘forward-looking statements’’ within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. When used in this news release, the words “will”, “deliver”, “grow”, “after”, “expected to”, or other variations of these words or other similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements and information. Actual results may differ materially from the expectations expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements as a result of known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Detailed information about some of the known risks and uncertainties is included in the “Risk Factors” section of Telesat Canada’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017 which can be obtained on the SEC website at http://www.sec.gov. Known risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to: risks associated with operating satellites and providing satellite services, including satellite construction or launch delays, launch failures, in-orbit failures or impaired satellite performance, the ability to successfully deploy an advanced global LEO satellite constellation, volatility in exchange rates and risks associated with domestic and foreign government regulation. The foregoing list of important factors is not exhaustive. The information contained in this news release reflects Telesat’s beliefs, assumptions, intentions, plans and expectations as of the date of this news release. Except as required by law, Telesat disclaims any obligation or undertaking to update or revise the information herein.

https://www.telesat.com/news-events/telesat-successfully-launches-telstar-18-vantage-powerful-satellite-bringing-new

FutureSpaceTourist · « **Reply #110 on:** 09/10/2018 03:28 pm »

Quote

Sheathed in clouds of liquid oxygen, #SpaceX’s #Falcon9 rocket launches #Telstar18V at 12:45 A.M. this morning. What a dramatic display of fury!

https://twitter.com/johnkrausphotos/status/1039159030080581633

FutureSpaceTourist · « **Reply #111 on:** 09/10/2018 06:46 pm »

Quote

Last night’s launch of Telstar 18 VANTAGE marked Falcon 9’s 60th successful mission.

https://twitter.com/spacex/status/1039221575772303366

Edit to add: more and higher res SpaceX launch images

FutureSpaceTourist · « **Reply #112 on:** 09/12/2018 11:31 am »

Quote

The #SpaceX booster on the horizon.

https://twitter.com/Cygnusx112/status/1039837706350743553

Also: https://twitter.com/julia_bergeron/status/1039837723656441856

FutureSpaceTourist · « **Reply #113 on:** 09/12/2018 12:23 pm »

Quote

#SpaceX booster 1049 slowly making its way into port. Close enough to see the support ships.

https://twitter.com/cygnusx112/status/1039850717459173376

FutureSpaceTourist · « **Reply #114 on:** 09/12/2018 01:32 pm »

Quote

#SpaceX booster 1049 along with tugs Hawk and Go Quest are 1Nm offshore and headed into port

https://twitter.com/cygnusx112/status/1039867714343522307

FutureSpaceTourist · « **Reply #115 on:** 09/12/2018 02:11 pm »

Quote

Getting close! #SpaceX booster 1049 entering port.

https://twitter.com/cygnusx112/status/1039873782608027649

Quote

Booster 1049 is back @PortCanaveral after delivering #TelStar18 to orbit. @SpaceX @NASASpaceflight

https://twitter.com/cygnusx112/status/1039878628849410048

FutureSpaceTourist · « **Reply #116 on:** 09/12/2018 02:16 pm »

@murphypak is showing the booster arrival live:

https://www.pscp.tv/murphypak/1zqKVLEDNlYJB

RocketLover0119 · « **Reply #117 on:** 09/12/2018 07:58 pm »

Per here: https://orlandoprincess.com/ , B1049 has been lifted on to land.

cygnusx112 · « **Reply #118 on:** 09/12/2018 08:42 pm »

A few pictures of the booster being removed from OCISLY.

FutureSpaceTourist · « **Reply #119 on:** 09/13/2018 11:13 am »

FutureSpaceTourist · « **Reply #120 on:** 09/13/2018 03:14 pm »

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#SpaceX is in the process of removing the first leg. #SpaceFlight #Falcon9

https://twitter.com/cygnusx112/status/1040255011270402048

Quote

Removing or folding?

https://twitter.com/spacexupdates/status/1040255354737774592

Quote

I thought I heard removing but now that you ask I’m questioning myself. I’m going back later and will know then.

https://twitter.com/cygnusx112/status/1040256108349321217

FutureSpaceTourist · « **Reply #121 on:** 09/13/2018 03:51 pm »

Quote

Definitely folding the legs on the #SpaceX booster.

https://twitter.com/cygnusx112/status/1040265724869201921

Wolfram66 · « **Reply #122 on:** 09/13/2018 04:39 pm »

Run through Adobe Lightroom to enhance visibility to where the leg lift cables attach to the cap.

looks like the wires attach to the corners perpendicular to leg being lifted...

king1999 · « **Reply #123 on:** 09/13/2018 06:43 pm »

It seems that the leg has been put down. They are still testing it.

https://twitter.com/Cygnusx112/status/1040294095242096641

Michael Baylor · « **Reply #124 on:** 09/13/2018 09:29 pm »

Now it's going back up!
https://twitter.com/USLaunchReport/status/1040348113976930306

Michael Baylor · « **Reply #125 on:** 09/13/2018 10:50 pm »

All the way up now.

https://twitter.com/USLaunchReport/status/1040367593062715392?s=20

FutureSpaceTourist · « **Reply #126 on:** 09/14/2018 02:49 pm »

No leg action yet today but a nice view:

Quote

A different shot of the #Falcon9 booster with the VAB photobombing it. #SpaceX

https://twitter.com/cygnusx112/status/1040612350724845568

Michael Baylor · « **Reply #127 on:** 09/14/2018 03:38 pm »

They disconnected the pully from the leg which was raised up. Perhaps a sign that they don't intent to lower it again?

Quote

1st Landingleg flush at
#Falcon9 core 2nd time!After AM retract,crews lowered 115pm,then raised again 445pm.Many pauses 2 evaluate/touch leg.Op done 615pm.Then disconnect hoist cable from leg leading 2 cap pully. @SpaceX

https://twitter.com/ken_kremer/status/1040584450801913856

ATPTourFan · « **Reply #128 on:** 09/14/2018 05:28 pm »

Still just the one leg fully stowed as of about 1pm local time at Port Canaveral, per Ken Kremer.

Quote

1Leg up,3Legs down:No change since last night @SpaceX #Falcon9 recovered/landed 1ststage booster #Telstar18v Sep10 launch.Sailed @PortCanaveral Sep12.Crew evaluating best way retract landinglegs after 2x90min long ops yesterday w/Booster Lift/Leg Retract Device [email protected]_kremer

https://twitter.com/ken_kremer/status/1040644911891132417

ATPTourFan · « **Reply #129 on:** 09/14/2018 05:32 pm »

....aaaaand the leg is back down again per our friend, SpaceGal. $:-\$

Quote

Ummm 24 mins later this is what it looks like!

https://twitter.com/murphypak/status/1040652202409385989

ATPTourFan · « **Reply #130 on:** 09/14/2018 05:35 pm »

SpaceGal live streaming leg removal.

https://www.pscp.tv/murphypak/1OdJrpLWbzQKX

https://twitter.com/murphypak/status/1040653847964905472

FutureSpaceTourist · « **Reply #131 on:** 09/14/2018 07:02 pm »

Quote

One first landing leg has been removed! #SpaceX #Falcon9

https://twitter.com/cygnusx112/status/1040657128585875457

Edit to add:

Quote

The second strut has been removed and is hanging from the yellow boom. #SpaceX

https://twitter.com/cygnusx112/status/1040662330038730753

Quote

Just watched them lift the first landing foot. #SpaceX

https://twitter.com/cygnusx112/status/1040664559055511552

cygnusx112 · « **Reply #132 on:** 09/14/2018 08:35 pm »

All 4 legs have been removed and currently they are still doing work.

RocketLover0119 · « **Reply #133 on:** 09/15/2018 12:23 pm »

Rocket is going horizontal!

(From the Orlando princess webcam)

RocketLover0119 · « **Reply #134 on:** 09/15/2018 12:26 pm »

Now horizontal! Next step will be to lower it on to the booster transporter.

RocketLover0119 · « **Reply #135 on:** 09/15/2018 01:14 pm »

Now sitting on the transporter!

cygnusx112 · « **Reply #136 on:** 09/15/2018 01:28 pm »

Perfect timing this morning as the move started 2 minutes after I arrived. I have some video I’ll post later.

FutureSpaceTourist · « **Reply #137 on:** 09/15/2018 06:12 pm »

Quote

The @SpaceX #Telstar18v booster is leaving Port Canaveral to go back to the hangar in preparation for it's next launch.

https://twitter.com/julia_bergeron/status/1041023637694963712

FutureSpaceTourist · « **Reply #138 on:** 09/15/2018 06:18 pm »

Quote

Now legless #Falcon9 recovered booster lowered horizontal this morning onto transporter.Booster Lift/Leg Retraction Device #BLLRD cap removed by crane crews. Mounting rings attached for transport to Cape Canaveral #CCAFS. From #SpaceX #Telstar18v launch Sep. Credit: @ken_kremer

https://twitter.com/ken_kremer/status/1041023452847718401

cygnusx112 · « **Reply #139 on:** 09/15/2018 07:06 pm »

The booster moving on 401.

FutureSpaceTourist · « **Reply #140 on:** 09/16/2018 08:03 pm »

cygnusx112 · « **Reply #141 on:** 09/16/2018 10:02 pm »

gongora · « **Reply #142 on:** 10/31/2018 08:20 pm »

Telesat’s New Telstar 18 VANTAGE Satellite Now Operational over Asia Pacific

Ottawa, Canada, October 31, 2018 – Telesat announced today that its new Telstar 18 VANTAGE high throughput satellite (HTS) is fully operational at 138 degrees East and has entered commercial service. Telstar 18 VANTAGE was launched by a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida on September 10 and will serve growing demand for mobility, enterprise and telecom services across the Asia Pacific region.

Built by SSL, a Maxar Technologies company, Telstar 18 VANTAGE is the latest in a new generation of Telesat satellites with capacity optimized to serve the types of bandwidth intensive applications increasingly in demand by users worldwide. It replaces and expands on Telesat’s Telstar 18 satellite through extensive C-band capacity over Asia, Ku-band HTS spot beams over Indonesia and Malaysia, and five additional regional Ku-band beams.

The coverage of Telstar 18 VANTAGE reaches across Asia all the way to Hawaii – in both C and Ku-band – enabling direct connectivity between any point in Asia and the Americas. Its innovative Ku-band payloads of HTS spot beams and focused regional beams provide customers operating in Southeast Asia, Mongolia, Australia & New Zealand, and the North Pacific Ocean with greater choice and flexibility in deploying high performing broadband networks.

“Telstar 18 VANTAGE is a state-of-the-art spacecraft that combines regional beams and high throughput spot beams to deliver superior performance and value to our growing base of Asian customers,” said Dan Goldberg, Telesat’s President and CEO. “The market’s favorable response to Telesat’s Telstar VANTAGE satellites confirms that their innovative payloads provide important advantages to our customers. With the start of Telstar 18 VANTAGE service, we are pleased to be bringing these capabilities to the Asia Pacific region.”