A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launched the EUTELSAT-36D mission to a geosynchronous transfer orbit from Launch Complex 39A (LC-39A) at Kennedy Space Center at 5:52 p.m. on 30 March 2024. Following stage separation, the first stage landed on the Just Read the Instructions droneship stationed in the Atlantic Ocean.

This is the 12th launch of the first stage booster supporting this mission, which previously launched CRS-26, OneWeb Launch 16, Intelsat IS-40e, O3b mPOWER, Ovzon 3, and six Starlink missions.

NEW, FLEXIBLE RESOURCES FOR BROADCAST AND CONNECTIVITY

Enhanced service continuity at the key 36° East orbital position.

Eutelsat Group has procured the new EUTELSAT 36D satellite, to succeed EUTELSAT 36B at 36° East.

Delivering over 1,100 TV channels to millions of homes across a vast footprint, 36° East is a key orbital slot for broadcasters. Home to two powerful satellites, EUTELSAT 36B and EUTELSAT 36C, together they support the broadcast business of several major anchor customers.

With 70 physical Ku-band transponders, the all-electric EUTELSAT 36D will assure the main legacy missions of EUTELSAT 36B, with enhancements to coverage areas and performance.

EUTELSAT 36D has also been selected by Airbus Defence and Space to carry its latest Ultra High Frequency (UHF) payload to support communications over Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

Based on the state-of-the-art Airbus Eurostar Neo platform, the satellite is due for launch in the first half of 2024.