GSLV Phase-IV Involving Data-Relay Communication Satellite’s Launch Critical For Gaganyaan Mission Gets Approved

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.