Produced by: Tarun Mishra Designed by: Manoj Kumar
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will launch its latest large satellite, GSAT 20, using SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket for the first time.
ISRO Chairman S Somanath announced this development at the India Space Congress-2024 in New Delhi, confirming that GSAT 20 has been cleared for launch.
GSAT 20 will be shipped to the US and is scheduled for a dedicated launch on the Falcon 9 rocket in mid-August.
The two-stage SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, approximately 70 meters in length, has conducted 358 launches to date with a high success rate.
Previously, India relied on Ariane Space for launching heavy satellites. With the French rocket decommissioned and its replacement still under development, ISRO is shifting to SpaceX
GSAT 20 is a high-tech, heavyweight communications satellite weighing 4,700 kg with a throughput capacity of 48 GBPS. It features 32 spot beams and is designed to enhance connectivity across India, with a focus on the Northeastern region.
The satellite will be operated by ISRO’s commercial arm, New Space India Ltd (NSIL). Approximately 80% of its capacity has already been sold to a private company, though the buyer was not disclosed.
ISRO opted for SpaceX’s services because India’s own heavy rocket, the Launch Vehicle Mark 3, cannot carry such a heavy payload. Mr. Somanath highlighted the need for increased demand for Indian rockets and encouraged the private sector to develop satellites for domestic launches. This launch marks a new phase of Indo-US cooperation, with the American private sector playing a significant role.