Program: N Star

Japanese telecommunication that replaced the Sakura series. In 2000 Jsat acquired 60% of N Star a & N Star b from NTT. In 2002 a further 9.67% was acquired by Jsat.

Designed to replace the Sakura 3A & 3B satellites.

The satellites provide inter-orbit links, high quality DBS TV and mobile links. They will enable the use of cellular phones anywhere in Japan (in 1995 the existing cellular phone system covers 95% of Japan's populated areas but does not cover mountainous areas). This service will be provided by NTT's mobile phone unit, NTT Mobile Communications Network Inc.

Program ended in 2020.

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