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.
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