INDIA'S GSAT-20 SATELLITE LAUNCHED

Symbolising growing technology, growth & collaboration, this mission highlights India's dedication to leveraging space technology for societal progress, expanding its role in commercial space ventures while underscoring the potential for India's heavy-lift launch vehicles to capture future opportunities

- AYUSHEE CHAUDHARY

THE LATEST INDIAN SATELLITE GSAT-20 LAUNCH EXEMPLIFIES India's push toward advanced space technology and international collaboration, enhancing connectivity for underserved regions while paving the way for a digitally inclusive and globally integrated future. On November 19, 2024, NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) achieved a significant milestone with the successful launch of GSAT-N2 (GSAT-20), a cutting-edge high-throughput satellite (HTS), aboard SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket. Launched from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida, this mission marks a critical advancement in India's communication satellite technology while underlining the reliance on international collaboration for heavy satellite launches.

After nearly 34 minutes of flight, GSAT-N2 successfully injected into its intended super Geo-Synchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) with Perigee of 250 km, Apogee of 59,730 km and 27.5 degree inclination. Post-separation of GSAT-N2, ISRO’s Master Control Facility at Hassan, India took control and initial data received indicates good health of the satellite. In the coming days, the orbit of GSAT-N2 would be raised from GTO to GeoStationary Orbit (GSO), through a series of orbit raising maneuvers using satellite’s on-board chemical propulsion system. The satellite would be finally positioned at 68 deg. E longitude for commencing its operational services.

KEY FEATURES OF GSAT-N2