ETS-6 Satellite Bus
Data current as of 2026-07-20.
The ETS-6 bus accounts for 3 cataloged objects, of which 3 are in orbit and 0 are active. Most are built by NEC/TOSH. The largest operator on this bus is JAXA. The first launched in 1994, the most recent in 2008.
3
In orbit
0
Active
3
Total launched
0
Reentered
ETS-6 launched per year
Still in orbit Click a year to list its satellites.
Typical specifications
Most common values across cataloged ETS-6 satellites.
| Manufacturer | NEC/TOSH |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Communication |
| Launch mass | 1996 kg |
| Dry mass | 1950 kg |
| Length | 3 m |
| Diameter | 2 m |
| Span | 21.6 m |
| Shape | Box + 2 Pan |
| Power | 2 deployable solar arrays, batteries |
| Propulsion | 2 ion thrusters |
| Design life | 10 years |
| Equipment | 5(+1) Ka-band 200W transponders |
| Typical orbit | 328 min period, 9° inclination |
Top operators
Top countries
J 3
ETS-6 satellites
Track any of them live in KeepTrack.
| Name | NORAD | COSPAR | Owner | Launched | Orbit | Status | Track |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| KIZUNA (WINDS) Kizuna | 32500 | 2008-007A | JAXA | Feb 23, 2008 | 1436 min, 8.6° | Inactive | ◉ |
| KAKEHASHI (COMETS) Kakehashi | 25175 | 1998-011A | NASDA | Feb 21, 1998 | 328 min, 30.1° | Inactive | ◉ |
| KIKU-6 (ETS-VI) Kiku-6 | 23230 | 1994-056A | NASDA | Aug 28, 1994 | 862 min, 12.4° | Inactive | ◉ |
Frequently asked questions
How many ETS-6 satellites are there?
The catalog lists 3 objects built on the ETS-6 bus. 3 are in orbit and 0 have reentered.
How many ETS-6 satellites are in orbit?
3 ETS-6 objects are currently in orbit, of which 0 carry an active status.
Who builds the ETS-6 bus?
The ETS-6 bus is most commonly built by NEC/TOSH.
When did the first ETS-6 satellite launch?
The first cataloged ETS-6 satellite launched in 1994, and the most recent in 2008.