Moment SpaceX deployed India's 4,700-kg GSAT-20 satellite in space

Although India has reportedly launched approximately 430 foreign satellites, this very heavy Indian satellite had to be launched from Florida's Cape Canaveral. This historic collaboration with SpaceX has opened up a new avenue for commercial rocket launches for India.

In Short

• SpaceX's Falcon9 deploys very heavy Indian satellite in space
• SpaceX captures the moment minutes after Falcon9 blasted off from Florida
• The Indian satellite GSAT-20 will help in strengthening communication across India

India's first-ever commercial collaboration with SpaceX successfully launched the 4,700-kg GSAT-20 satellite into space on Tuesday. Falcon9 rocket lifted off from Florida’s Cape Canaveral, deploying the Indian satellite into orbit shortly after blast off.

Here is the moment when SpaceX's Falcon9 deployed India's GSAT-20 satellite in space.

GSAT-20, equipped with a Ka-band high-throughput communications payload, has a mission lifespan of 14 years. Once operational, the satellite will enhance communication services across India, providing internet connectivity to remote areas and enabling in-flight internet services.

The satellite is designed with 32 user beams, including eight narrow spot beams and 24 wide spot beams, supported by hub stations located throughout India. This advanced configuration aims to significantly strengthen the country’s communication infrastructure.

Although India has reportedly launched approximately 430 foreign satellites, this very heavy Indian satellite had to be launched from Cape Canaveral.

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The collaboration with SpaceX marks a historic milestone for India, driven by the satellite's size and weight. At 4,700-kg, GSAT-20 exceeds the payload capacity of ISRO’s heaviest launch vehicle, the LVM-3, which can carry up to 4,000 kg to a geosynchronous transfer orbit.

In the past, India relied on European launch provider Arianespace for heavy satellite missions. However, with Arianespace facing operational challenges and geopolitical tensions restricting options from Russia and China, SpaceX emerged as the most viable partner.

This successful mission strengthens commercial ties between ISRO and SpaceX while showcasing India’s growing capabilities in satellite technology and communication services. It also signals a significant step forward in global partnerships for space exploration.