Insta
Ariane 5 thrusting off to launch GSAT-11 and GEO-KOMPSAT-2A (<a href="https://twitter.com/Arianespace">@<b>Arianespace</b></a>/ image via twitter)
Codenamed “Big Bird”, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)‘s GSAT-11 satellite which will provide satellite-beamed internet to remote parts of India along with internet connectivity in flights, was launched successfully today (5 December) at 2.07 am IST from the Kourou French spaceport in South America, as reported by NDTV.
The Big Bird weighs 5,854 kg, which is the heaviest Indian made satellite yet. It was accompanied by the Korea Aerospace Research Institute’s (KARI) GEO-KOMPSAT-2A satellite which weighs 3,507.2 kg.
India’s GSLV MK III can carry payload upto 4 tons, so the Big Bird was launched in Ariane 5 rocket which has a payload capacity of 10 tons for geosynchronous orbits.
The satellite was originally set to be launched in May this year but had to be taken back to Bengaluru for additional testing.
"GSAT-11 is the next generation high throughput communication satellite that will play a vital role in providing broadband services across the country. It will also provide a platform to demonstrate new generation applications," said the ISRO chief Dr K Sivan.
Costing Rs 600 crore, the ‘Big bird’ is expected to provide its services for 15 years. The satellite has power equivalent to the combined power of all Indian communication satellites currently.
“Along with its three siblings, GSAT-19, GSAT-29 and GSAT-20, the satellite will be a game changer for providing internet access and data communications for India and will aid the Digital India program,” added Dr Sivan.
Support Swarajya's 50 Ground Reports Project & Sponsor A Story
Every general election Swarajya does a 50 ground reports project.
Aimed only at serious readers and those who appreciate the nuances of political undercurrents, the project provides a sense of India's electoral landscape. As you know, these reports are produced after considerable investment of travel, time and effort on the ground.
This time too we've kicked off the project in style and have covered over 30 constituencies already. If you're someone who appreciates such work and have enjoyed our coverage please consider sponsoring a ground report for just Rs 2999 to Rs 19,999 - it goes a long way in helping us produce more quality reportage.
You can also back this project by becoming a subscriber for as little as Rs 999 - so do click on this links and choose a plan that suits you and back us.
Click below to contribute.
Latest