The GSLV MKIII rocket. Despite the delay, the widow will be open until March, ISRO Chairman said. (image via ISRO website)
The GSLV MKIII rocket. Despite the delay, the widow will be open until March, ISRO Chairman said. (image via ISRO website) 
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GSLV Phase-IV Involving Data-Relay Communication Satellite’s Launch Critical For Gaganyaan Mission Gets Approved

BySwarajya Staff

A Rs 3,000 crore plan for the GSLV phase-IV program was approved by the Union Cabinet on Monday (15 April), under which five geo-orbit satellites would be launched between 2021 and 2024, Times of India has reported.

This program would also involve the launch of two-tonnes class satellites for geo-imaging, navigation, data-relay communication and space sciences.

The launch of data-relay communication satellite would be very significant considering it would be used in helping the execution of Gaganyaan - India’s first human spaceflight program.

This satellite would act as a communication link between the astronauts and ISRO’s deep space control centre. This centre would be located in Karnataka’s Byalalu.

Phase-IV’s projected cost also includes five GSLV rockets, facility augmentation and program management.

Before phase-iV can be kicked-off, ISRO still needs to launch important geo-missions under phase-III of GSLV. This includes a launch of a next gen remote-sensing geo-imaging satellites (Gisats).

Gisat-1 would be launched in September and Gisat-2 will be launched in November. The phase-III also includes a series of advanced satellites.