BEIJING, Aug.25 (China Space News) -- The AIT (Assembly, Integration and Test) of the APSTAR-6C satellite has made significant progress since the System CDR (Critical Design Review) was conducted. The testing result showed the performance of the satellite is in line with specifications. Recently, the mating of SM (service module), PM (propulsion module) and CM (communication module) has been successfully completed. This milestone also marks the commencement of the system level testing.

The project schedule shows that APSTAR-6C will be ready for launch in 2018 on board a LM-3B launch vehicle.

APSTAR-6C is based on CAST DFH-4 platform which will be equipped with C-band, Ku-band, and Ka-band transponders, providing high power satcomm services to customers across the Asia-Pacific region, for VSAT, video distribution, DTH, cellular backhaul and mobility broadband applications.