Image Credit: X account @SpaceX
SpaceX Successfully Launches ISRO’s GSAT-N2 Communication Satellite
Elon Musk’s SpaceX successfully launched the Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) GSAT-N2 communication satellite into orbit from the Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida on Tuesday.
This marks the beginning of a significant commercial partnership between ISRO and SpaceX.
The GSAT-N2 was launched aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket, known for its efficiency in deploying satellites into precise orbits. Speaking about the achievement, Radhakrishnan Durairaj, Chairman and Managing Director of New Space India Limited (ISRO’s commercial arm), confirmed that the satellite had been placed in its intended orbit.
High-Throughput Satellite Enhancing Connectivity
Jointly developed by ISRO’s Satellite Centre and the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre, GSAT-N2 is designed to significantly boost India’s communication capabilities. With a data transmission capacity of 48 Gbps, the satellite will enhance broadband connectivity across India and support in-flight internet services.
Supporting Smart Cities and Connectivity
Equipped with 32 user beams, GSAT-N2 covers the Northeast region with 8 narrow spot beams and the rest of India with 24 wide spot beams. Supported by hub stations within mainland India, the Ka-Band HTS payload ensures a throughput of approximately 48 Gbps. The satellite is expected to operate for 14 years, contributing to India’s Smart Cities Mission and other communication needs.
Collaboration Amid Launch Challenges
Traditionally, ISRO relied on French launch provider Arianespace for heavy payloads. However, with Arianespace lacking operational rockets for such missions, SpaceX has become a vital partner, especially for deploying massive payloads like the 4,700 kg GSAT-N2 satellite.
This successful launch highlights the growing collaboration between India’s space agency and global commercial entities, further advancing India’s space and communication ambitions.
