N Star-C

Launch data:

Specifications

Launch team members watch as N-STAR c is lowered for a fit check on the cone-shaped adapter that will serve as the interface with its Ariane 5 launcher. N-STAR c will be operated by Japan’s NTT Mobile Communications Network, Inc. (NTT DoCoMo). The satellite was built by a joint venture of Lockheed Martin (spacecraft prime contactor, as well as payload supplier and integrator) and Orbital Sciences Corporation (responsible for the satellite bus and related ground system, as well as procurement of the launch vehicle and performance of initial satellite operations).

N-STAR c is in position atop the Ariane 5 launcher in this photo taken during final integration activity. Built by Lockheed Martin and Orbital Sciences for NTT DoCoMo, Inc. of Japan, N-STAR c will weigh approximately 1,645 kg. at launch. N-STAR c will ride inside the Sylda 5F dispenser, and is to be released after Stellat 5 during the flight.

Mission details:

• Lifting from the Spaceport's ELA-3 launch complex, the Ariane 5 deployed Stellat 5 at just under 30 minutes into the mission, followed seven minutes later by the release of N-STAR c.
• The mission began right on time at 8:21 p.m. (local Kourou time) - the opening of a 58-minute launch window. Weighing approximately 746 metric tons at engine ignition, the Ariane 5 quickly climbed into a clear French Guiana night sky. The separation of Ariane 5's two large solid booster stages at 2 min. 22 sec. into the mission were clearly visible on the Arianespace video broadcast.
• N-STAR c is a mobile telephony spacecraft produced in a joint effort by U.S. manufacturers Lockheed Martin and Orbital Sciences Corp. Fitted with an S-band transponder payload, it will be positioned at 136 deg. E for use by Japan's NTT DoCoMo to expand mobile telephony services.

C-band

S-band