Published: 5th Jan, 2024
Context
India is gearing up for a remarkable advancement in its space capabilities with the upcoming launch of the GSAT-20 satellite. The NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), the commercial arm of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), has disclosed crucial details about this mission.
Details Unveiled by NSIL:
- NSIL, responsible for building, launching, owning, and operating satellites based on user demands, has shared insights into the GSAT-20 satellite mission.
- This initiative follows the successful deployment of GSAT-24 in June 2022, a mission funded entirely by NSIL and securing capacity through TataPlay.
GSAT-20's Objectives:
- Scheduled for the second quarter of 2024, GSAT-20 is designed to significantly enhance broadband connectivity in India.
- Additionally, it aims to support In-Flight and Maritime Connectivity (IFMC) and cellular backhaul services across the country.
Key Features of GSAT-20:
- High-Throughput Satellite (HTS) Capacity: The satellite boasts an impressive HTS capacity of nearly 48Gbps.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Featuring 32 beams, GSAT-20 ensures comprehensive coverage over the entire Indian subcontinent, including the Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep islands.
Collaboration with SpaceX:
- Weighing 4700 kg, GSAT-20 is being developed by ISRO and will be launched aboard SpaceX's Falcon-9 rocket.
- This collaboration emphasizes the growing global partnerships in the space industry and underscores the significance of international cooperation in advancing space technology.
Commercial Demand:
- Indian service providers have already pre-booked the bulk of the high-capacity bandwidth offered by GSAT-20.
- This indicates a strong demand for improved connectivity, hinting at the potential transformative impact on the region.
Significance of GSAT-20 Mission:
- The mission holds particular significance as it aims to meet the challenging service requirements of remote and previously unconnected regions.
- By bridging the digital divide, GSAT-20 contributes to fostering inclusive growth.
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