Superbird B2 rendering. Photo: Skyperfect JSAT

[Via Satellite 04-25-2014] Sky Perfect JSAT has concluded preparations for procuring a successor to the company’s Superbird B2 satellite. The company plans to secure the successor satellite, Superbird 8, and launch it in late 2015. Superbird 8 will carry Ku and Ka transponders and will provide communications services to mostly the Japanese market.

The Superbird B2 satellite has been in service since April 2000 and will reach the end of its allocated service life in 2015.