The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has big plans this year. It is getting ready to launch a very large 4,700 kg communication satellite called GSAT-20. This satellite will open up new technology for India in space.
The problem is ISRO’s current rockets can only carry about 4,000 kg. GSAT-20 is too big for them. So ISRO has turned to SpaceX and its powerful Falcon 9 rockets to help launch GSAT-20. The launch should happen sometime in the middle of 2024.
Partnership Between ISRO & SpaceX
This is an important partnership between ISRO and SpaceX.
GSAT-20 will provide a new type of high bandwidth internet service using a Ka-Ka band. It is meant to bring low-cost broadband access, including mobile backhaul, to rural and remote areas of India.
The satellite has already pre-sold most of its bandwidth capacity to Indian companies, though their names are secret. GSAT-20’s coverage will reach the farthest corners of India thanks to its 32 beams.
Benefit For India
It can supply speeds up to 48 gbps total for super fast connectivity anywhere in India. Before, India had to use European rockets for big satellites. Partnering with SpaceX saves money compared to those options.
Meanwhile, ISRO does keep trying to upgrade its own rocket technology. It is working on a semi-cryogenic engine to power rockets that can carry over 4 ton payloads in future. This engine uses liquid oxygen and kerosene fuels.
ISRO plans to test its semi-cryogenic concept sometime this year. But an early test of a prototype engine failed last July due to high pressures.
ISRO will keep moving ahead to master this next generation rocket tech through more tests. For now it relies on SpaceX to launch special satellites like GSAT-20 starting up advanced new services across India.
