India’s GSAT-20 Launched by SpaceX Falcon-9 to Boost Telecom Infrastructure

India’s GSAT-20, one of its heaviest communication satellites weighing 4,700 kg, has been successfully launched aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket. This launch marks a significant shift for the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), which traditionally relied on its own LVM-3 rocket for satellite launches. Falcon 9’s ability to carry heavier payloads to geostationary transfer orbit (GTO) made it the ideal choice for this mission.

GSAT-20, also known as GSAT N-2, is designed to enhance India’s communication network. Equipped with advanced Ka-band technology, the satellite has a total throughput capacity of 70 Gbit/s, with 80 beams providing enhanced coverage across the country. This satellite will support key national projects like the Smart City initiative and provide in-flight internet connectivity.

ISRO chose SpaceX for this launch after the retirement of Arianespace’s Ariane-5 rocket and with limited options for future commercial launches. As tensions around Russia’s involvement in Ukraine and concerns over using Chinese services grew, SpaceX became the most reliable alternative for heavy payload launches.

GSAT-20 has a mission life of 14 years and is set to revolutionize India’s telecommunications infrastructure. Meanwhile, ISRO is developing the Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV), a cost-effective rocket that will be capable of carrying up to 30 tonnes to Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and 10 tonnes to GTO, aimed to further enhance India’s space capabilities in the future.

This partnership between ISRO and SpaceX highlights the evolving landscape of global space exploration, with India increasingly looking to advanced international partnerships to meet its ambitious space goals.