Thor 6, also known as Intelsat 1W (IS-1W), is a geostationary communications satellite operated by Intelsat at position 1.0° W. The spacecraft serves telecommunications and broadcasting needs of Europe, the Middle East, Africa and the Atlantic region. The sathub database records 35 active Ku-band transponders and over 517 channels.
For satellite dish owners in Ukraine, this position has one distinctive characteristic: 1.0° W is almost the exact "zero" point of the geostationary arc, so the antenna points almost directly south with minimal westward deviation. In practice, when adjusting a 0.90 m dish in Kyiv, the azimuth differs from true south by only 1–2°, which simplifies initial pointing. Reception is achievable on antennas from 75 cm to 1.2 m — depending on the specific beam and the reception location's geography.
History and Launch
The satellite was launched into orbit in 2005 from Baikonur by a Proton-M launch vehicle. The platform is Space Systems/Loral 1300 (SSL-1300), one of the most proven geostationary platforms in the industry. The design life is 15 years.
The original designation was Intelsat 1W. The commercial designation Thor 6 appeared later when the satellite was engaged to provide services to Scandinavian and Central European operators. In fact, it is the same spacecraft — simply two different brands for different market segments.
Coverage Areas and Reception in Ukraine
The satellite forms several spatial beams. For reception in Ukraine, the European Ku-beam is primarily relevant.
| Beam | Coverage | Antenna for Ukraine |
|---|---|---|
| Europe Ku | All of Europe, including Ukraine | 90 cm — 1.2 m |
| Middle East Ku | Middle East, partly southern Europe | 1.2 m and larger |
| Africa Ku | African continent | Not applicable |
| Atlantic Ocean Region | Atlantic region, European coastlines | 1.0 — 1.2 m |
Kyiv and central regions reliably receive the signal on 90 cm. Western Ukraine — Lviv, Uzhhorod — is closer to the centre of the European beam, so reception there is possible even on 75–90 cm. In eastern and southern Ukraine, where signal levels are noticeably weaker, it is better to aim for 1.0–1.2 m. According to signal measurements in dense cloud conditions, the signal margin on a 90 cm antenna in Kharkiv is minimal — this is where a 1.0 m dish provides a noticeable advantage in rainy weather.
Transponder Capacity and Frequency Bands
Thor 6 operates exclusively in the Ku-band. Thirty-five active transponders. Transmissions are conducted in DVB-S and DVB-S2 standards with QPSK and 8PSK modulation. Symbol rates vary from 2000 to 30000 Msym/s depending on the service type. Polarisation is horizontal (H) and vertical (V), so to receive both streams on a single antenna, a universal LNB with DiSEqC support or Twin/Quad configuration will be required.
Television Packages and Free-to-Air (FTA) Channels
Position 1.0° W carries a wide range of content for European audiences:
- European television channels of general and thematic orientation
- Sports broadcasts, including regional packages
- Commercial packages from Scandinavian and Central European operators
- Free-to-air (FTA) channels from various European countries
- Data transmission services and corporate communication channels
Some transponders are used for non-commercial and test transmissions — enthusiasts can track new frequencies through the current sathub database.
Frequently Asked Questions
What antenna is needed to receive Thor 6 in Ukraine?
For most regions — 90 cm to 1.2 m. Western Ukraine receives on 75–90 cm, eastern and southern regions require 1.0–1.2 m for stable signal in any weather.
Are there free-to-air (FTA) channels on Thor 6?
Yes. The current list of FTA channels is available in the sathub transponder database for position 1.0° W.
Which LNB is suitable for reception?
A standard universal Ku-LNB with local oscillator frequencies of 9750/10600 MHz. For simultaneous reception of both polarisations — Twin or Quad LNB with DiSEqC.
How does Thor 6 differ from Intelsat 1W?
In no way — it is the same spacecraft. Intelsat 1W is the operator's official designation, Thor 6 is the commercial designation for Scandinavian and European markets.