Japan launches giant satellite for mobile phones

Japan today launched one of the world`s largest geostationary satellites in a bid to improve mobile telephone reception in remote areas, according to ZeeNews.

"The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency launched the H-2A rocket at 3:32 pm (12:02 IST). The experimental satellite, which is known as Kiku Number 8, is the largest built by Japan`s space agency. It weighs 5.8 tons and is 40 meters (131 feet) long.

... Kiku Number 8`s antennas, among the longest ever developed for a satellite, are its key attribute, an agency statement said.

"This function is expected to be very useful in our daily lives, for example in some mountainous areas and at sea where no ground stations are available," the statement said.

emily | 1:24 PM | News, Buzz |
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