Aurora 2

Aurora 2, an Alaskan-owned telecommunications satellite, provided telephone, television, maritime, radio, and emergency communications service for the northern state's long-distance carrier, Alascom, as well as radio and data services for GE Americom. The satellite carried 32 C-band transponders (24 primary and 6 redundant) operating at 6/4 GHz. Sixteen of the 24 channels served Alaskan customers, and 8 served US businesses. Built by GE Astro-Space for Alascom, Aurora 2 was box-shaped, measuring 1 by 1.64 by 1.4 m. Two three-panel solar arrays, totaling 13 sq. m, extended from either side of the main body. The fixed dual-polarization reflector antenna covered the continental US, Alaska, and Hawaii. It replaced Aurora 1, which retired after 9 years of service. Stationed above 139 deg. w, Aurora 2 became operational in July. It has a 12-year life expectancy.