India’s GSAT-20 Launches on SpaceX Falcon-9 Rocket

Why in the news?

India’s GSAT-20, a 4,700 kg communication satellite, was successfully launched on SpaceX Falcon-9 from Florida, marking the first collaboration between NSIL and SpaceX for satellite deployment.

India's GSAT-20 Launches on SpaceX Falcon-9 Rocket

Highlights of the GSAT-20 Successfully Launched on SpaceX Falcon-9:

  • India’s GSAT-20, a 4,700 kg high-throughput communication satellite, was launched aboard SpaceX’s Falcon-9 rocket on November 18, 2024, at 12:01 AM IST.
  • This marks the first collaboration between NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), the commercial arm of ISRO, and SpaceX for satellite deployment from Cape Canaveral, Florida.
  • The satellite was placed into a geosynchronous transfer orbit (GTO) 34 minutes after launch, with ISRO’s Master Control Facility taking control.

Significance and Objectives

  • GSAT-20 is designed to expand broadband connectivity across India, particularly in remote regions like the Andaman, Nicobar, and Lakshadweep Islands.
  • The satellite supports national initiatives, including Smart Cities, in-flight connectivity, and rural telecom networks.
  • NSIL Chairman Radhakrishnan D highlighted the collaboration with SpaceX as a milestone and noted future partnerships may be explored based on requirements.

Key Features of GSAT-20

  • High Data Capacity: Offers a throughput of 48 Gbps across 32 beams, enhancing data services.
  • Ka-Band Technology: Utilises advanced Ka-band frequency for improved satellite communication.
  • Extended Coverage: Aims to provide reliable broadband access in underserved regions.
  • Mission Lifespan: The satellite is expected to operate for 14 years, revolutionising India’s telecom infrastructure.

This launch represents a significant step in India’s space technology and global collaborations, emphasising its commitment to improving connectivity and supporting development initiatives.

About NewSpace India Limited (NSIL)

  • Established: March 6, 2019, under the Department of Space, Govt. of India.
  • Focus: Enabling industry participation in space tech and commercialising Indian space program outputs.
  • Activities:
    • PSLV and SSLV production.
    • Satellite building, transponder leasing, remote sensing services.
    • Technology transfer, spin-off marketing, and consultancy.
  • Managed GSAT-24, its first demand-driven satellite mission in 2022.
  • Operates 11 communication satellites.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times