Express AM44 is a geostationary communications satellite operated by RSCC (Russian Satellite Communications Company) at orbital position 11.0° W. The satellite covers a wide geographical area: Europe, Middle East, Africa, Asia, Russia and CIS countries. The 11.0° W position falls within the reception sector of most antenna installations oriented westward from Kyiv.
On board are 13 active transponders in C and Ku-bands. The satellite is used for television broadcasting, data transmission and provision of telecommunications services to operators in Europe and Asia. The satellite's NORAD ID is 33595.
History and launch
Express AM44 was placed into geostationary orbit on 14 December 2010 by a Proton-M launch vehicle from the Baikonur Cosmodrome. The manufacturer is Orbital ATK (Space Systems Loral), SSL 1300 platform. This is one of the most widespread and proven platforms in the commercial satellite industry. The estimated operational lifetime is 15 years from the launch date.
Coverage zones and reception features in Ukraine
To receive a signal from the 11.0° W position, an antenna in Ukraine is oriented towards the west-southwest. The elevation angle for Kyiv is approximately 24-26 degrees. In practice, during setup this means clear horizon visibility: even low trees or a neighbouring building's roof can block the signal.
| Beam | Coverage | Antenna diameter (approximate) |
|---|---|---|
| Ku-beam (Europe) | Central and Eastern Europe, Ukraine | 60-90 cm |
| C-beam (wide) | Europe, Middle East, Africa, Asia | 1.2-1.8 m |
| Ku/C (Russia and CIS) | Russia, CIS countries | 90 cm - 1.8 m |
For Ku-band in most regions of Ukraine, an antenna with a diameter of 60-90 cm is sufficient. C-band requires a dish from 1.2 to 1.8 m - the specific size depends on the transponder and signal level at the reception point. According to signal measurements in dense cloud conditions, C-band demonstrates noticeably more stable signal levels than Ku-band.
Transponder capacity and frequency bands
13 active transponders are distributed between C and Ku-bands. Ku is used primarily for regional television broadcasting and broadband access. C-band provides stable long-distance communication and is less sensitive to atmospheric precipitation - a key advantage for operators with critical channel availability requirements. Transponders support DVB-S2 with QPSK and 8PSK modulation, allowing efficient transmission of HD content and data packets within available bandwidth.
Television packages and open FTA channels
From the 11.0° W position, Express AM44 broadcasts primarily Russian federal television channels and regional programmes for audiences in Russia, CIS countries and Russian-speaking diaspora in Europe. Some transponders are used for telecommunications services to corporate clients and communications operators. The content includes both encrypted packages and open FTA streams. An up-to-date list of active transponders and channels is available in the sathub database with regular updates.
Frequently asked questions
What antenna is needed to receive Express AM44 in Ukraine?
For Ku-band, a dish with a diameter of 60-90 cm is sufficient. For C-band, an antenna of 1.2 m or larger is recommended.
Are there open FTA channels on Express AM44?
Yes, some transponders operate in open mode. A complete list is available in the transponder table on the satellite page.
How do I tune a receiver to position 11.0° W?
Enter the frequency, symbol rate and polarization from the transponder table into your receiver. Orient the antenna towards the west-southwest with an elevation angle of approximately 24-26 degrees for central Ukraine.
What is the satellite's operational lifetime?
The estimated operational lifetime of Express AM44 is 15 years from its launch in December 2010.