New Delhi: India’s most advanced communication satellite was successfully launched into space today with the help of SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket. GSAT-20 (GSAT N-2) satellite was launched from Cape Canaveral, Florida, USA.
What will this satellite do?
The GSAT N-2 satellite will provide broadband services to remote areas and in-flight internet to passenger aircraft. The satellite is equipped with 32 user beams, including eight narrow spot beams over the northeastern region and 24 wide spot beams over the rest of India. All 32 beams will be supported from hub stations located in India. These satellites will also help in providing in-flight internet connectivity.
Why did SpaceX help?
Actually, the weight of this satellite is 4700 kg. It was not possible for the Indian rocket to launch such a heavy satellite, so the help of SpaceX was taken. India’s own rocket ‘The Bahubali’ or launch vehicle Mark-3 can go into space orbit with a maximum weight of 4000 to 4100 kg.
Chinese rockets are unsuitable for India and due to the conflict in Ukraine Russia has not been able to offer its rockets for commercial launches.
