Eurobird Satellites: Eutelsat's European Broadcasting Network
The Eurobird series represented a specialized fleet of satellites owned and operated by Eutelsat, designed to deliver high-quality broadcasting and telecommunication services. Primarily serving the Western and Central European regions, these satellites operated from strategic orbital positions to ensure wide coverage and reliable signal delivery.
To streamline its corporate identity, Eutelsat phased out the Eurobird branding on March 1, 2012. Following this rebranding, the remaining Eurobird satellites were integrated into the main Eutelsat fleet, though they continue to provide essential services under their new designations.
Key Facts
- Operator: Eutelsat.
- Primary Service Area: Western and Central Europe.
- Orbital Positions: 9, 25.5, and 33 degrees East.
- Rebranding Date: March 1, 2012.
- Core Services: Television broadcasting and satellite internet access.
Current Operational Status
Several satellites from the original Eurobird series remain in orbit, though their roles and names have evolved. These assets continue to support a variety of regional communication needs.
Eutelsat 9A (formerly Eurobird 9A)
Located at 9° East, this satellite is a hub for diverse international content. It currently carries the Russian Platform HD package, the German KabelKiosk package, and the American Forces Network Europe.
Eutelsat 25B / Es'hail (formerly Eurobird 2)
Positioned at 25.5° East, this satellite was previously known as Hot Bird 5 at 13° East. Now more commonly referred to as Arabsat 2D, it primarily broadcasts free-to-air television services.
Eutelsat 33A and 33C
Operating at 33° East, Eutelsat 33A (formerly Eurobird 3) is utilized mainly for satellite internet access. Meanwhile, Eutelsat 33C (formerly Eurobird 1 and Eutelsat 28A) is also located at 33° East but currently carries no active services.
Retired and Pending Assets
As technology advances, older satellites are decommissioned. Eutelsat 4A (formerly Eurobird 4A), which had been located at 4° East since June 2009, was officially retired in 2012.
Additionally, the retired Hot Bird 3 was slated to become Eurobird 10, positioned at 10° East alongside Eutelsat W1, pending an investigation into damage caused to the craft.
Eurobird Fleet Summary
| Original Name | Current/Final Name | Orbital Position | Primary Use/Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eurobird 9A | Eutelsat 9A | 9° East | TV Packages (German, Russian, AFN) |
| Eurobird 2 | Eutelsat 25B / Arabsat 2D | 25.5° East | Free-to-air Television |
| Eurobird 3 | Eutelsat 33A | 33° East | Satellite Internet |
| Eurobird 1 | Eutelsat 33C | 33° East | No current services |
| Eurobird 4A | Eutelsat 4A | 4° East | Retired (2012) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to the Eurobird brand?
The Eurobird brand was phased out on March 1, 2012, as part of a company-wide rebranding by Eutelsat to integrate all satellites into a single main fleet.
Which regions did Eurobird satellites primarily serve?
They primarily provided broadcasting and telecommunication services to Western and Central Europe.
What are the primary orbital positions used by the Eurobird series?
The satellites operated from orbital positions at 9, 25.5, and 33 degrees East.
Which Eurobird satellite is used for internet access?
Eutelsat 33A, formerly known as Eurobird 3, is mainly used for satellite internet access.
Is Eurobird 4A still in operation?
No, Eutelsat 4A (formerly Eurobird 4A) was retired in 2012.