ISRO plans to send its new communication satellite GSAT-N2, otherwise known as GSAT-20, into orbit using SpaceX’s Falcon 9 launch vehicle. This particular deal is the first commercial project between ISRO and Space X, an aerospace manufacturing firm from the United States run by entrepreneur Elon Musk. The satellite will offer connectivity of in-flight internet services across the country, the News18 report added.
At the time of writing this paper, internet use on airplane is limited in India. Under its operation the airlines have to block such services while flying within the country. Passengers can access wireless internet services once the flight is at 3,000 meters above sea-level; this the Indian government clarified on November 4 when it amended regulations. The new regulation says, “Internet services through Wi-Fi in aircrafts should be allowed when other electronics are allowed in the aircrafts.”
This is the reason why ISRO has concluded a deal to launch the satellite on a SpaceX Falcon 9; the satellite weighs over 600 kg. Although India’s Mark-3 launch vehicle can transport a load of as much as 4,000 kgs to GTO, GSAT-N2 weighs 4,700 kgs, so it needs more payload capacity.
The GSAT-N2 is a taxi based satellite system that gives India’s communication system an added feature. It has a stated mission lifespan of 14 years, and to do so, it has 32 user beams in total, with 8 narrow spot beams, and the remainder of 24 wider beams needed to sweep the whole of India. These beams will be brought by hub stations within the-main, thus positively influencing connectivity and internet especially to the travelers by air. This development is predicted to improve availability of the technology and enhance the nation’s communication infrastructure.
The partnership between ISRO and SpaceX is a manifestation of the changing trends of international space cooperation which shows that ISRO is looking forward to growing its proficiency and promoting space exploration.
