SpaceX Successfully Launches ISRO’s GSAT-N2 Communication Satellite
In a significant milestone for space cooperation, SpaceX successfully launched the Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) GSAT-N2 communication satellite on Tuesday from Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. The satellite was launched aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket, marking the first of many planned commercial collaborations between ISRO and SpaceX.
According to Radhakrishnan Durairaj, Chairman and Managing Director of New Space India Limited (NSIL), the commercial arm of ISRO, the GSAT-N2, or GSAT-20, has been successfully placed in its intended orbit, positioning it for its crucial role in India’s communication infrastructure.
What is GSAT-N2?
GSAT-N2 is an advanced communication satellite developed jointly by ISRO’s Satellite Centre and the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre. With a data transmission capacity of 48 Gbps, the satellite is designed to enhance broadband services and provide nationwide in-flight connectivity. It will continue the legacy of the GSAT series of communication satellites, supporting India’s Smart Cities Mission by adding significant data transmission capacity.
Expected to operate for 14 years, GSAT-N2 features 32 user beams, including 8 narrow spot beams for the Northeast region and 24 wide spot beams for the rest of India. These beams will be supported by hub stations located across the mainland. The satellite’s Ka-Band HTS (High Throughput Satellite) communication payload provides a throughput of approximately 48 Gbps, enabling robust communication services.
Why SpaceX Was Chosen for the Launch
Traditionally, ISRO has relied on French commercial launch service provider Arianespace for heavy satellite launches. However, due to a lack of operational rockets capable of carrying a 4,700 kg payload like the GSAT-N2, ISRO turned to SpaceX. India’s own launch vehicle, LVM-3, has a capacity limit of 4,000 kg, which made SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket the ideal choice for this mission.
This launch not only highlights the growing commercial collaboration between ISRO and SpaceX but also reinforces India’s ambitions to strengthen its communication infrastructure for the future.
