Galaxy 4R (G-4R) Communications Satellite Overview

Galaxy 4R (G-4R) was a geostationary communications satellite initially operated by PanAmSat from 2000 to 2006, and later by Intelsat until its retirement in 2009. Positioned primarily at 99° West, The satellite was launched to replace Galaxy IV, which failed in 1998. The satellite provided critical broadcast and internet services across North America.

Launch and Specifications

Galaxy 4R was successfully launched on April 18, 2000, aboard an Ariane launch vehicle operated by Arianespace. It was equipped with 24 C-band and 24 Ku-band transponders, offering broad coverage and reliable transmission capacity for media and data services.

Key Users and Services

The satellite supported major media and broadcast companies, including:

• Warner Brothers

• National Public Radio (NPR)

• Public Radio International

• Buena Vista Television Distribution

• FOX

• Televisa

In addition to television and radio broadcasting, the satellite was utilized for satellite internet services such as DirecPC, and much of its Ku-band capacity was allocated to HITS (Headend In The Sky), a service that redistributed cable programming from various satellites to cable providers.

Operational Timeline and Decommissioning

Although G-4R was designed for a 15-year lifespan, it experienced a propulsion system failure in 2003. It continued limited service until August 14, 2006, when it was replaced by Galaxy 16. Afterward, the satellite was relocated to 76.85° West and allowed to drift into an inclined orbit to conserve remaining propellant.

G-4R was officially decommissioned in April 2009 and relocated to a graveyard orbit.