Artemis (satellite)

Quick Facts: Who was Artemis (satellite)?

Subject:

Artemis (satellite)

Known for:

Geostationary telecommunications satellite, operational from 2001 to 2017.

Born:

2001

Died:

2017

Century / Era:

2001s Historical Era Archive

Verified Source:

2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives

Origins & Foundation

Artemis was conceived as a crucial geostationary earth orbit (GEO) satellite designed specifically for advanced telecommunications services. The initial planning for the mission spanned many years, with early launch intentions even suggesting a possible use of a Japanese H-II rocket. Although the mission was initially slated for a 1995 launch, the actual deployment was significantly delayed until the early 2000s. This foundational period involved extensive engineering work by Alenia Spazio for the European Space Agency (ESA), setting the stage for its complex orbital maneuvers.

Breakthrough & Iconic Era

The satellite achieved a major operational breakthrough following its launch via an Ariane 5 rocket on July 12, 2001. Initially, the launch experienced a malfunction, placing Artemis in a much lower orbit than intended, requiring a novel and complex remote reconfiguration procedure. Over several weeks, the satellite utilized its chemical fuel and its RIT-10 gridded ion thruster to raise its orbit dramatically. This painstaking process successfully placed it into its intended, high-altitude, circular geostationary station, marking its primary operational success.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

Throughout its career, Artemis proved vital for covering specific L-Band spectrum rights, notably when it was moved to the 123E position to serve the Indonesian Ministry of Defense. After a period of ownership change in 2014, the satellite continued to serve its purpose until it was officially retired in November 2017. Even after deactivation, its technological profile meant it was later considered a precursor for more advanced programs, cementing its lasting impact on regional telecommunications infrastructure.

Chronological Milestones & Life Events

1. 1995: 1995 Milestone — Although the mission was initially slated for a 1995 launch, the actual deployment was significantly delayed until the early 2000s.
2. 2001: Birth of Artemis (satellite) — Geostationary telecommunications satellite, operational from 2001 to 2017.
3. 2014: 2014 Milestone — After a period of ownership change in 2014, the satellite continued to serve its purpose until it was officially retired in November 2017.
4. 2017: Passing & Historical Legacy — Artemis (satellite) passed away on 2017, leaving an enduring historical legacy.

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Artemis (satellite)

True or False: “Artemis was designed from the outset to operate exclusively in the highly restricted Ka-Band spectrum.”

Answer (FALSE ❌): Artemis was designed to operate across various bands, including the L-Band spectrum, and was not restricted solely to Ka-Band.

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• 2001 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 2001
• 2017 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 2017

Frequently Asked Questions about Artemis (satellite)