Astra 2B

Astra 2B was a communications satellite owned and operated by SES Astra (now SES). It was positioned at the 28.2° East orbital location, primarily serving Europe. The satellite provided direct-to-home (DTH) television and radio services.

Astra 2B was launched on September 1, 2000, aboard an Ariane 5 rocket from Kourou, French Guiana. It was built by Boeing Satellite Systems, based on the Boeing 376HP platform. It carried 30 Ku-band transponders.

The primary function of Astra 2B was to augment and replace capacity on other Astra satellites at the 28.2° East orbital position, which is a key location for serving the UK and Ireland. It broadcast channels for several broadcasters, including Sky UK and ITV.

Towards the end of its operational life, Astra 2B was gradually phased out of service as newer satellites with more advanced capabilities, such as Astra 2E, 2F, and 2G, were launched and took over its role. Its mission officially ended in 2014, and the satellite was subsequently moved to a graveyard orbit.