Turksat 6A's Electric Thrust Engine Successfully Ignited
A significant milestone was achieved in Turkey's space program as the electric thrust engine of the Türksat 6A satellite was successfully ignited. This marks a crucial step towards the satellite's full operational capacity.
The electric thrust engine, a cutting-edge technology that uses electricity to propel the satellite, will enable Türksat 6A to maintain its position in orbit for a significantly longer period than traditional chemical propulsion systems. This extended lifespan will provide Turkey with enhanced satellite communication services for years to come.
The information within the scope of the Türksat 6A project was shared recently on the social media account of the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Türkiye (TÜBITAK).
It was stated that the HALE 1500 electric thrust engine developed by TÜBITAK UZAY for the project was successfully fired for seven minutes.
"Thus, our electric thrust engine, produced entirely with domestic and national means, gained space history in geostationary orbit at an altitude of 35,786 kilometers."
The post addied: "While continuing the orbital tests of Türksat 6A, we also need to perform periodic position protection maneuvers to keep our satellite in orbit against disruptive factors originating from the Earth, the Sun and the Moon, and to maintain a safe distance from other satellites. "
"For this, we will use the two domestic electric thrust engines we have installed to keep our satellite in its longitude and maintain its orbital circularity," the statement said.
"Thanks to our electric thrust engine, which we have successfully used the HALE 300 version of in our IMECE satellite before, we will now be able to maneuver with less fuel and have the opportunity to increase the mission life of our satellite."
"This step we have taken in our national space journey is the work of our country's independent technological power and determined engineers. We are proud of our teams," the post read.
Türksat 6A, a high-capacity communications satellite, was launched into orbit earlier this year. Once fully operational, it will provide broadband internet, television broadcasting, and other telecommunications services to Turkey and the surrounding region.
The successful ignition of the electric thrust engine is a major step forward for Turkey's space program and demonstrates the country's growing capabilities in this field.
Türksat 6A, a high-capacity communications satellite, was launched into orbit earlier this year. Once fully operational, it will provide broadband internet, television broadcasting, and other telecommunications services to Turkey and the surrounding region.
The successful ignition of the electric thrust engine is a major step forward for Turkey's space program and demonstrates the country's growing capabilities in this field.
