Alphasat is in position.

Europe's largest telecommunications satellite ever built is ready to begin crucial testing before officially launching its services.

Alphasat was launched into orbit 10 days ago on an Ariane rocket, and is now at its optimal altitude, 36,000 km above the equator, and most importantly, its massive 11-meter antenna has been deployed.

Engineers plan to test the sophisticated communication system housed inside this 6.6-ton spacecraft soon.

Alphasat is now ready for the crucial test.
Photo: ESA

Alphasat will provide telecommunications services for Inmarsat, a mobile satellite service company based in London, UK, with major clients including the BBC, shipping companies, the oil and gas industry, aviation, and the military.

BBC quoted Franco Carnevale, Vice President of Immarsat, as saying that the new satellite will begin testing on August 13, 14, or 15.

This satellite is a collaboration between the BBC and the European Space Agency (ESA), and has been dubbed the "A380 in space".

According to thanhnien.com.vn - HL