India’s GSAT-20 rides SpaceX Falcon-9 to orbit: New satellite set to revolutionise telecom infrastructure

On November 18, 2024, at 12:01 AM IST, India achieved a significant milestone with the launch of GSAT-20 aboard SpaceX’s Falcon-9 rocket. This marks the first time NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), the commercial arm of ISRO, has partnered with SpaceX for satellite deployment. The satellite separated from the rocket 34 minutes post-launch and was successfully placed into its geosynchronous transfer orbit.

In an earlier TOI report, NSIL Chairman and Managing Director Radhakrishnan D emphasized the importance of the collaboration, stating, “SpaceX was selected against an RFP we had floated last year. There were other bidders too. This marks a new beginning as we launch on a US rocket from their soil. The present agreement is only for this launch, and we will look at future requirements as and when we need.”

The launch took place from Florida, and SpaceX confirmed the mission's success around 12:36 am, noting that the satellite was injected into the Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) as planned.

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"GSAT-N2 weighing 4700 kg has been injected into the desired Geo-synchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) and ISRO's Master Control Facility (MCF) has taken control of the satellite. Preliminary data indicates satellite in good health," NSIL said in a post on 'X.'

Key Features of GSAT-20 Satellite

The GSAT-20 satellite represents a cutting-edge advancement in satellite communication technology, with features tailored to meet India’s growing connectivity needs.

• High Data Capacity: With a throughput of 48 Gbps across 32 beams, the satellite ensures robust broadband coverage, extending to remote areas like the Andaman, Nicobar, and Lakshadweep Islands.
• Ka-Band Technology: Utilizing the Ka-band frequency, GSAT-20 is designed to support in-flight internet services and Smart Cities initiatives.
• Durability and Efficiency: The satellite is engineered for a 14-year mission life and features advanced materials, including CFRP structures and Li-ion batteries.
• The GSAT-N2 spacecraft structure is based on the standard Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP)-based I4K bus.

Demand-Driven Model

This launch is part of the Indian government’s 2020 space sector reforms, which mandate NSIL to develop satellites based on service demand. GSAT-20 is NSIL’s second demand-driven satellite after GSAT-24, which was launched in 2022 and leased entirely to Tata Play.

Unlike GSAT-24, which served a single client, GSAT-20 will cater to multiple users. An official noted in a TOI report, “While this is also a dedicated satellite, it is not meant for a single company. There are multiple players in the fray.”

GSat 20 Launch: Why SpaceX Was Chosen

Historically, India relied on French Arianespace rockets for launching heavier satellites. However, the 4,700 kg GSAT-20 exceeded the capacity of India’s launch vehicles, prompting NSIL to choose SpaceX’s Falcon-9 through a competitive bidding process.

The partnership with SpaceX not only marks a new chapter for NSIL but also reflects India’s increasing engagement with international space agencies.

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India’s Expanding Space Ambitions

NSIL, established as part of India’s push to commercialize space, is tasked with owning, operating, and funding satellite missions to meet market needs. Its first demand-driven mission, GSAT-24, launched in June 2022, set a precedent for private sector involvement in India’s satellite industry.

With the GSAT-20 launch, NSIL is furthering its mission to enhance connectivity infrastructure across India. This aligns with the government’s vision to leverage space technology for national development, especially in bridging the digital divide.

In June 2022, NSIL successfully launched its first demand-driven satellite mission, GSAT-24 (now called GSAT-N1), which is fully leased by TataPlay. “While this is also a dedicated satellite, it is not meant for a single company. There are multiple players in the fray,” an official told TOI.

SpaceX also reported that this launch was part of a series of missions, completing three successful Falcon 9 launches in approximately 20 hours, marking their 112th, 113th, and 114th successful launches of the year.

This launch is part of the Indian government's 2020 space sector reforms, which mandate NSIL to develop satellites based on service demand.

Implications and the Road Ahead

The successful launch of GSAT-20 highlights India’s evolving approach to space exploration, combining domestic expertise with global partnerships. As connectivity becomes increasingly vital for Smart Cities, in-flight internet, and remote regions, GSAT-20 is poised to play a crucial role.

The satellite has a mission life of 14 years and is equipped with 32 user beams, comprising eight narrow spot beams over the Northeast region and 24 wide spot beams over the rest of India.

"These 32 beams will be supported by hub stations located within mainland India," NSIL said.

The payload consists of three parabolic 2.5-meter deployable reflectors with multiple feeds generating 32 spot beams over the Indian region using a single feed per beam configuration.

Union Minister Jitendra Singh also praised the launch, stating via a post on X, "Kudos to team ISRO & SpaceX for the successful launch of GSAT-N2. Under the leadership of PM Narendra Modi, collaboration between
ISRO & SpaceX aims at enhancing internet services, including in remote areas as well as in-flight connectivity, with a mission lifespan of 14 years."

(With inputs from TOI)