Astra 3A under construction.

This nice picture shows Astra 3A under construction in the Boeing factory. The satellite is a Boeing HS 376-HP type (HP = high power). These spin stabilised satellites do not have solar sails like the more conventional types, the solar cells are attached directly to the body of the satellite (the dark covering to the satellite).

At the top of the satellite, the main reflector that bounces the signals down to your dish can be seen folded down out of the way.

© Boeing

A cutaway diagram of this satellite showing the main features of the bird can be seen here.

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