ISRO Set To Launch First Satellite On SpaceX Falcon 9 Rocket In August

For the first time, ISRO, the Indian space agency, will launch its newest large satellite aboard SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket.

During the India Space Congress-2024 in New Delhi, ISRO chairman S Somanath announced the approval of the GSAT 20 satellite. He stated that ISRO will transport it to the US and launch it via the Falcon 9 rocket in mid-August, marking a dedicated Falcon 9 launch.

The SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, a two-stage vehicle measuring approximately 70 meters in length, has conducted 358 launches to date with a notable track record of success.

Previously, India depended on Ariane Space for launching its heavy satellites. However, since the retirement of the French rocket, a replacement is still in development.

ISRO's newest communications satellite, GSAT 20, is a sophisticated heavyweight weighing 4,700 kg, boasting a high throughput capacity of 48 Gbps. With its design featuring 32 spot beams, the satellite is tailored to offer extensive coverage across India, with a particular focus on enhancing connectivity in Northeastern regions.

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ISRO's commercial entity, New Space India Ltd (NSIL), will own and operate the satellite.

Mr. Somanath mentioned that a private company has already purchased nearly 80% of the capacity, without disclosing the identity of the buyer.

ISRO opted for SpaceX because India's indigenous heavy rocket, the Launch Vehicle Mark 3, lacks the capability to lift such a heavy satellite.

Mr. Somanath expressed concern over insufficient demand for India's rockets and stressed the importance of the country's private sector developing satellites suitable for launch from India.

The upcoming launch signifies a new phase of Indo-US collaboration, with increased involvement of the American private sector.

Indo- Australian Agreement

Under an Indo-Australian agreement, ISRO secures its inaugural dedicated commercial launch aboard the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV).

Space Machines Company, an Australian-Indian firm specializing in in-space servicing, has entered into a significant Launch Service Agreement with NSIL, the commercial arm of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) under the Department of Space.

This groundbreaking partnership paves the way for the launch of Space Machines Company's second Optimus spacecraft, weighing 450kg, the largest spacecraft designed and built in Australia to date. Scheduled for a dedicated launch aboard NSIL's SSLV in 2026, this mission represents a significant milestone for both nations in space collaboration.

Mr. Somanath confirmed that this will mark the inaugural fully dedicated commercial rocket launch of SSLV, which is still in development.

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