GSAT-N2 Satellite

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Elon Musk-owned SpaceX company's 'Falcon 9' rocket successfully launched the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO)'s GSAT-N2 satellite (artificial satellite) from Cape Canaveral, Florida on November 19, 2024.

About GSAT-N2

• What is it: A communication satellite
  • It is also called GSAT-20.
• Manufactured: Developed by ISRO's Satellite Center and Liquid Propulsion Systems Center.
• Purpose: To meet India's growing connectivity needs
• Lifespan: 14 years
• Weight: 4,700 kg
• Position: Geostationary orbit (at an altitude of 35,786 km)

Key features of GSAT-N2:

• High data capacity: With a throughput (the amount of material or objects passing through a system or process) of 48 Gbps on 32 user beams, the satellite ensures robust broadband coverage that will extend service to remote areas like Andaman Nicobar and Lakshadweep islands.
  • Out of the 32 user beams, 8 are Narrow Spot Beams over Northeast region and 24 are Wide Spot Beams over rest of India.
• Ka-band technology: Using Ka-band frequency, GSAT-20 is designed to support in-flight internet services and smart city initiatives.
• Durability and efficiency: The satellite is designed for a mission life of 14 years and uses advanced materials including carbon fibre polymer structures and lithium ion batteries.
• Demand-driven model: The launch is part of the Indian government's 2020 space sector reforms under which NSIL has been given the mandate to develop satellites based on service demand.

ISRO-SpaceX collaboration:

• This is the first time a satellite built by ISRO has been launched by SpaceX.
• The launch collaboration between ISRO and SpaceX aims to enhance internet services in India, including remote areas as well as in-flight connectivity.
• Historically, India has relied on French Arianespace rockets to launch heavy satellites.
• However, the 4,700 kg GSAT-20 was beyond the capacity of India's launch vehicles, forcing NSIL to choose SpaceX's Falcon 9.\
• The Falcon-9 rocket is a reusable rocket manufactured by SpaceX.
• Falcon-9 can carry satellites as well as people into space.
• Its reusability significantly reduces the cost of the company's projects.

Implications of this launch:

• The successful launch of GSAT-N2 reflects India's emerging approach to space exploration that combines domestic expertise with global partnerships.
• The partnership with SpaceX not only begins a new chapter for NSIL but also reflects India's growing engagement with international space agencies.
• As smart cities, in-flight internet, and connectivity to remote areas become increasingly important, GSAT-20 will play a vital role in the future.