Florida: India’s latest communication satellite, GSAT-N2, has been successfully placed into orbit following a launch by SpaceX from Cape Canaveral, Florida, early Monday morning. The milestone was confirmed by NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), the commercial arm of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
The advanced GSAT-N2 satellite, weighing 4,700 kg, is designed to provide broadband services to remote regions and in-flight internet connectivity for passenger aircraft. Due to its heavy payload, GSAT-N2 was launched aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket, which lifted off at 12:01 AM local time from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral. The rocket’s 34-minute journey to space culminated in the successful deployment of the satellite into geostationary orbit.
In a recorded statement released after the launch, ISRO Chairman S. Somanath expressed his confidence in the mission: “Hoping to see the launch go well. And all the best to the team.”
This launch marks the first-ever collaboration between ISRO and SpaceX for a commercial satellite deployment. Due to the satellite’s size and weight, it was too large for ISRO’s own rockets, prompting the decision to work with SpaceX for the mission. The collaboration reflects growing ties between the two space agencies, with the GSAT-N2 satellite expected to play a crucial role in bolstering India’s communication infrastructure.
The GSAT-N2 mission is expected to last for 14 years, enhancing the nation’s connectivity capabilities, especially in remote and underserved areas. The satellite is also set to improve services for aviation, offering high-speed internet to passenger aircraft.
The successful deployment of GSAT-N2 is a significant achievement for ISRO and its commercial arm, NSIL, and underscores the growing role of private companies like SpaceX in advancing space exploration and technology. The mission also utilized a launch pad leased from the U.S. Space Force, marking another key step in the increasing international collaboration in space activities.