Isro to launch GSAT-20 satellite aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket.

NewSpace India Ltd (NSIL), the commercial arm of the Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro), has signed a contract with SpaceX, the space exploration venture of billionaire Elon Musk, for the launch of Isro’s communication satellite GSAT-20, which has now been renamed GSAT-N2.

Isro’s collaboration with SpaceX marks a major upgrade in the Indian space agency’s satellite deployment programme.

GSAT-N2, the renamed version of GSAT-20, is a high throughput Ka-band satellite designed to meet the growing broadband communication needs of India. Ka-band satellites can deliver high-speed broadband internet connectivity, as well as facilitate digital video and audio transmission.

With a weight of 4,700 kg, GSAT-N2 is a bit too heavy for even the top Isro rocket, GSLV-Mk3, which has a capacity to carry satellites of up to 4,000 kg only. 

GSAT-N2 claims an impressive Ka-band HTS capacity of 48 Gbps, with 32 beams, providing pan-India coverage, including remote areas like Andaman and Nicobar and Lakshadweep islands.

GSAT-N2 will thus make it possible to meet the service requirements of remote and unconnected regions in the country.

The launch is scheduled for the second quarter of 2024. GSAT-N2 will offer cost-effective high-speed Ka-Ka band HTS capacity primarily for broadband, in-flight and maritime connectivity as well as cellular backhaul service needs.

SpaceX will carry out the launch using its two-stage, reusable Falcon-9 rocket that can transport payloads into Earth orbit and beyond. 

Falcon-9, the world’s first orbital class reusable rocket, is capable of placing 8,300 kg payloads into geo transfer orbit (GTO). 

Isro has earlier been using the services of Arianespace to launch heavy satellites.

SpaceX has also expressed interest in expanding its satellite broadband project, Starlink, to India.