The latest Indian satellite GSAT-20 launch exemplifies India’s push toward advanced space technology and international collaboration, enhancing connectivity for underserved regions while paving the way for a digitally inclusive and globally integrated future. On November 19, 2024, NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) achieved a significant milestone with the successful launch of GSAT-N2 (GSAT-20), a cutting-edge high-throughput satellite (HTS), aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket. Launched from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida, this mission marks a critical advancement in India’s communication satellite technology while underlining the reliance on international collaboration for heavy satellite launches.

After nearly 34 minutes of flight, GSAT-N2 successfully injected into its intended super Geo-Synchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) with Perigee of 250 km, Apogee of 59,730 km and 27.5 degree inclination. Post-separation of GSAT-N2, ISRO’s Master Control Facility at Hassan, India took control and initial data received indicates good health of the satellite. In the coming days, the orbit of GSAT-N2 would be raised from GTO to Geo-Stationary Orbit (GSO), through a series of orbit raising maneuvers using satellite’s on-board chemical propulsion system. The satellite would be finally positioned at 68 deg. E longitude for commencing its operational services.

KEY FEATURES OF GSAT-N2

At 4,700 kg, GSAT-N2 is one of the heaviest and most advanced communication satellites of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Designed under NSIL’s demand-driven model, it serves India’s burgeoning need for broadband and in-flight connectivity (IFC), especially in remote regions. The satellite operates in the Ka-band spectrum and features an impressive 48 Gbps throughput, with its 32 spot beams covering the entire country, including the Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep islands and the remote areas of the North Eastern region of the country.

This sophisticated spacecraft leverages a multi-beam architecture for frequency reuse, ensuring high data rates and system efficiency. Its payload includes deployable reflectors and cutting-edge communication systems, all built on ISRO’s versatile I6K bus structure. The GSAT-N2 also employs a bi-propellant propulsion system and advanced power systems, delivering up to 6 kW of electrical power. With a mission lifespan of 14 years, the satellite is poised to meet India’s expanding digital and connectivity needs for over a decade.

PRECISION DEPLOYMENT AND TESTING

After launch, the GSAT-N2 is undergoing orbital maneuvers to reach its geostationary orbit at 36,000 km. Over two weeks, its onboard propulsion system will raise its orbit, followed by rigorous in-orbit testing to verify the Ka-band payload’s high performance capabilities.

As GSAT-N2 undergoes orbit-raising maneuvers and prepares for its final placement at 68°E longitude, it is expected to become fully operational by January 2025. Its successful deployment sets the stage for further innovation in India’s space programme, addressing both domestic and global challenges in connectivity and digital infrastructure.

BRIDGING CONNECTIVITY GAPS

GSAT-N2 is a game-changer for India’s digital landscape. By providing robust broadband services and enabling IFC for airlines and ships, the satellite supports India’s ambitions for a Smart Cities Mission and wider digital inclusion. Its capacity for cellular backhaul also holds promise for strengthening mobile networks in remote and underserved areas. With its large capacity and reach, the satellite demonstrates the evolution of ISRO’s technological capability. GSAT-N2 is pivotal for improving in-flight connectivity, cellular backhaul, and rural broadband services. Its innovative multi-beam architecture allows frequency reuse, ensuring efficient service delivery to underserved regions.

“The successful launch of GSAT-N2 by NSIL marks the beginning of the commercially competitive satellite capacity solutions being available to Indian VSAT operators for meeting the country’s Broadband and IFMC service needs,” said Radhakrishnan D., Chairman and Managing Director of NSIL.

WHY SPACEX’S FALCON 9 WAS THE CHOSEN ROCKET?

The decision to use SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket for this mission reflects India’s pragmatic approach to overcoming challenges in heavy payload launches. While ISRO’s LVM-3 rocket can carry payloads up to 4,000 kg, GSAT-N2’s 4,700 kg mass exceeded its capacity. Traditionally, India has relied on Arianespace’s Ariane rockets for such missions. However, with the unavailability of operational Ariane rockets at the time, NSIL turned to SpaceX, which has proven itself as a reliable and cost-effective provider of launch services. GSAT-N2 exceeded the payload capacity of India’s launch vehicles, and SpaceX’s Falcon 9 was selected as the optimal solution through a competitive bidding process.

Highlighting the collaborative spirit of the mission, NSIL Chairman and Managing Director Radhakrishnan D. remarked, “SpaceX was chosen after a competitive RFP process that saw several bidders. This mission represents a new milestone, being launched from US soil on a Falcon 9 rocket. While this agreement is specific to this launch, future opportunities will be considered as needed.”

This mission marked the 19th flight of the Falcon 9 booster used, demonstrating the reusability and reliability of SpaceX’s technology. Such partnerships highlight India’s increasing collaboration with global space players to meet its ambitious goals.

The medium and heavy-lift launch vehicle market is poised for notable expansion, with projections indicating a significant rise in market value over the next decade. According to BIS Research, the global market is expected to grow from $6.45 billion in 2021 to $9.75 billion by 2032, registering a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.90 per cent between 2022 and 2032.

This growth is driven by an increasing demand for launch vehicles to accommodate a surge in proposed satellites. Key factors fueling this trend include the development of large satellite constellations aimed at providing global broadband coverage, advancements in commercial human spaceflight, innovations in position, navigation, and timing (PNT) technologies, and heightened interest in space exploration and monitoring activities. These dynamics collectively contribute to the robust expansion of the medium and heavy-lift launch vehicle market.

LVM-3 is ISRO’s heaviest launch vehicle and holds a successful track record including crucial missions like the Chandrayaan-3. Going forward, the capacity of LVM-3 to launch heavier payloads is also expected to increase over the next couple of years as this is a significant market that must be tapped into for heavier Indian satellites to be launched more easily from homeland and become self-sufficient as well as for more global customers to utilise India’s rockets and commercialise the service.

A STEP FORWARD IN INDIA’S SPACE REFORMS

The GSAT-N2 mission is part of NSIL’s efforts to implement India’s space sector reforms announced in 2020, which emphasise a demand-driven approach to satellite development. Under this model, NSIL builds, owns, and operates satellites based on the specific needs of Indian service providers. This mission follows the success of GSAT-24, launched in 2022, and signals India’s growing commercial competitiveness in the satellite market. Following GSAT-24, leased entirely to Tata Play in 2022, GSAT-20 is tailored for multiple service providers, catering to broader market demands. GSAT-20 is preferably referred to as GSAT-N2, given it is NSIL’s second demand driven mission. Presently, NSIL owns and operates 11 communication satellites in orbit.

With GSAT-N2, India not only strengthens its technological capabilities but also highlights the importance of strategic global collaborations in pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in space exploration and communication technology. Hence, the GSAT-20 underscores India’s growing ambitions in the global space sector. By integrating advanced technology with international partnerships, NSIL is paving the way for a digitally inclusive future while showcasing India’s expertise on the global stage.

Enhancing connectivity, the mission once again highlights how space technology benefits life here on earth. The GSAT-N2 mission signifies more than just a technological leap for India; it is a testament to the nation’s evolving approach to space innovation and international partnerships. By leveraging advanced communication technologies, global collaborations, and government-backed reforms, the satellite paves the way for inclusive connectivity, enabling underserved communities, fostering Smart Cities, and enhancing in-flight services. This landmark mission reflects India’s commitment to harnessing space as a tool for societal advancement, positioning itself as a key player in the global commercial space landscape while bridging the digital divide for a better connected future.

TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATIONS IN GSAT-N2

GSAT-20, ISRO’s most advanced communication satellite, is designed to address India’s growing connectivity demands:

• Enhanced Capacity: Delivering 48 Gbps of throughput via 32 beams, GSAT-N2 ensures comprehensive broadband coverage, including remote regions like the Andaman, Nicobar, and Lakshadweep Islands.
• Ka-Band Frequency: This satellite, ISRO’s first to rely solely on the Ka-band (27-40 GHz), offers high-bandwidth data transmission, ideal for in-flight internet and Smart Cities projects.
• Durable Design: Built for a 14-year mission life, the satellite employs advanced Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) structures and lithium-ion batteries for efficiency and durability.
• Advanced Payload: The satellite features deployable reflectors generating precise spot beams supported by hub stations across mainland India.

“GSAT-N2 is a next generation communication satellite owned by NSIL and built by ISRO. This spacecraft will provide broadband services and IFC primarily in the Indian region. Its 32 spot beams would be primarily covering India mainland and islands of this region. It is further designed to enhance the capacity by providing 8 narrow spot beams over the North-Eastern region which requires this support for essential communication requirements. While building this satellite we used the support of various Indian industries who helped us with many sub-systems, structures, hardwares meant for the satellite and also the payloads and ISRO centres contributed in building the satellite, finally. The propulsion system is a bi-propellant system for orbitising and its station keeping. As soon as the satellite is in the required spot, we are ready with the ground infrastructure to provide the network of communication,” stated Dr S. Somanath, ISRO Chairman and Secretary, Department of Space.