Star One B4 (formerly Brasilsat B4): Brazilian Communications Satellite Overview

Star One B4, originally launched as Brasilsat B4, is a Brazilian communications satellite operated by Star One, a subsidiary of Embratel. Built by Hughes Space and Communications Company, the satellite is based on the reliable HS-376W satellite bus. Notably, it was the second-to-last satellite built using the HS-376 platform and the final HS-376W model to be launched.

The satellite was launched on August 17, 2000, at 23:16 GMT, aboard an Ariane 4 44LP-3 rocket from the ELA-2 launch pad at the Guiana Space Centre in Kourou, French Guiana. The launch was managed by Arianespace and shared with another payload, Nilesat 102.

Initially operated under the name Brasilsat B4 for Embratel, the satellite was later transferred to Star One and renamed Star One B4. After launch, it used its onboard R-4D apogee motor to enter geostationary orbit. It was first stationed at 75° West for in-orbit testing, completed by September 2000. The satellite was then repositioned to 92° West, where it remained operational until January 2007.

Subsequent relocations included:

• 70° West (February to June 2008)

• 84° West (from July 2008 onward)

Star One B4 is equipped with 28 communication transponders and was originally expected to operate for 12 years. It served as a replacement for the Brasilsat A2 satellite.

After over two decades of service, Star One B4 was moved to a graveyard orbit (junk orbit) in June 2021, marking the end of its operational life.