India's GSAT-20, a heavy communication satellite weighing 4,700 kg, is set to be launched by Elon Musk's SpaceX from Cape Canaveral, USA, on November 19, 2024. Developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), this satellite will offer crucial communication services, including internet access to remote regions. This launch represents an important achievement in India's space efforts, as the satellite exceeds the capacity of India's own LVM-3 "Bahubali" launch vehicle.

India was previously relying on Arainespace for launching heavier satellites. However, Arainespace's Ariane-5 rocket retired last year, and its successor, Ariane-6, has no available slots for commercial launches in the near future. SpaceX is a reliable and cost-effective option for launching such heavy satellites. Moreover, Russia is preoccupied with the Ukraine conflict and India doesn't want to rely too much on China for anything. Keeping these factors in mind, SpaceX seems like a viable alternative.

More About GSAT-20

• It is a hi-tech, heavy-weight satellite weighing 4,700 kg.
• It will have a high throughput capacity of 48 GBPS.
• The satellite made byISROhas 32 spot beams, and it has been made tocover all of India,but with aspecial emphasison providing connectivity for Northeastern India.
• The satellite will be owned and operated by ISRO's commercial arm New Space India Ltd. (NSIL).
• It is expected to remain operational for 14 years.

Initially, ISRO planned to use its LVM-3 rocket for the launch. However, the satellite's 4,700 kg weight exceeded the rocket's capacity, necessitating the switch to Falcon 9. To mitigate the limitations of its current launch capabilities, ISRO is developing the Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV). With a project budget of Rs 8,240 crore, the NGLV will feature a reusable first stage and can carry up to 30 tonnes to Low Earth Orbit or 10 tonnes to GTO.  

Northeast Telecom Coverage 

The GSAT-20 satellite is designed to play a key role in strengthening India's communication infrastructure particularly in remote areas as it will provide better internet connectivity, telecommunication services and ensure broad coverage in the northeast region, especially remote areas and villages. The satellite will also aid India's initiatives like Digital India and expansion of telemedicine.

The collaboration shows India's flexibility in taking advantage of global partnerships to meet its space objectives. The successful launch and operation of GSAT-20 will boost India's position in global space endeavours solidifying India's lead in space technology.

Space X's track record for cost-effective and reliable launches provides India with an affordable option for sending larger payloads into space as its current capacity is limited in this sphere.