India Launches Advanced GSAT-20 Satellite Ahead of Schedule

MUMBAI, INDIA - INDORE SPACE RELAYS SATellite INTENTIONAL CHANGE OVER (ISRO) has successfully taken control of its latest satellite, GSAT-20, after a successful deployment by SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket. The satellite, aimed at enhancing broadband connectivity throughout India, particularly in rural and remote regions, was launched from Cape Canaveral, Florida, on Tuesday.

According to officials, the satellite weighs approximately 4,700 kg and is functioning normally with all systems fully operational. ISRO has confirmed that the initial communication and control of GSAT-20 were transferred to its Master Control Facility (MCF) in Hassan, Karnataka, on November 20.

The MCF teams are now executing a series of complex orbital manoeuvres to guide the satellite from its transfer orbit to a geostationary orbit at an altitude of about 36,000 kilometres. The team will continue to monitor and adjust the satellite's positioning to ensure its successful deployment.

"This launch represents a significant achievement in India's satellite communication capabilities," said Dr Jitendra Singh, Ministry of Science and Technology. "The satellite will play a crucial role in extending internet services to regions with limited connectivity options, benefiting millions of individuals across the country."

The partnership with SpaceX for the launch is also seen as an important milestone in India's increasing involvement in global space initiatives.

With its onboard propulsion system, GSAT-20 is expected to undergo orbit-raising procedures over the next two weeks. After that, it will go through in-orbit testing, aimed at verifying the performance of its high-capacity Ka-band payload.

The satellite's payload has a capacity for data transmission speeds up to 48 Gbps, making GSAT-20 one of India's most advanced communication satellites to date.

As ISRO continues to push the boundaries of space technology, this successful deployment marks an important milestone in the country's journey to establishing itself as a major player in the global space industry.