Intelsat 33e (IS 33e)

Intelsat 33e [Boeing BSS]

Intelsat S.A. ordered in May 2013 construction of the Intelsat 33e satellite (IS-33e) as the first of a new four satellite package.

IS-33e has a high throughput C- and Ku-band payload for Intelsat's Epic system.

The payload is powered by two solar wings, each with four panels of ultra triple-junction gallium arsenide solar cells.

The satellite will be positioned at 60° East to replace Intelsat 904.

Intelsat 33e was successfully launched on 24 August 2016 together with Intelsat 36. The raise to geostationary orbit was delaysed, as the satellite suffered a malfunction of the primary thruster, which delays the entry into service until first quarter of 2017. The effect of the thruster malfunction on Intelsat 33e’s lifespan was minimal. In August 2017, another propulsion issue appeared, leading to larger-than-expected propellant usage to control the satellite attitude during the north/south station keeping maneuvers. This issue reduced the expected orbital life-time by about 3.5 years.

In October 2024, Intelsat-33e suffered a break-up event in geostationary orbit. About 20 pieces are being tracked. Intelsat considers this as an unrecoverable malfunction.