Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) on Wednesday launched high throughput communication satellite GSAT-29 from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh. The exercise was called GSLV MkIII-D2 mission.
The Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mark III (GSLV Mk-III) carried GSAT-29 off the ground on its second developmental flight at 5.08 in the evening. The load carried by GSLV Mk-III included what is being called as Geo Eye to monitor sensitive regions along the borders.
ALL ABOUT ISRO LAUNCH IN 10 POINTS
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GSAT-29 is the 33rd Made-by-India communications satellite. It is a multi-beam and multiband communications satellite. Once operational, GSAT-29 will provide internet connectivity in some of the remotest areas in Jammu and Kashmir, and the Northeast.
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GSAT-29 is carrying an on-board unique high-resolution camera that is capable of tracking “enemy ships” in the Indian Ocean. This high-resolution on-board camera is being referred to as Geo-Eye. It is expected to aid agencies involved in strategic surveillance.
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Indian Ocean has lately seen increased activities of major global powers. China has been aggressive in increasing its presence and influence in the Indian Ocean including recent strategic possessions in Sri Lanka, Maldives and Djibouti.
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GSLV MkIII-D2 is the heaviest rocket of the Isro till date. It would inject the satellite into Geostationary Transfer Orbit (GTO) with required inclination to the equator.
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GSAT-29 will be placed in its final Geostationary Orbit (GEO) using the on-board propulsion system, and it may take a few days after separation from launcher to reach its orbital slot.
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GSLV Mk-III is the fifth generation launch vehicle developed by Isro. GSLV Mk-III vehicle is designed to place up to 4,000 kg in GTO. It is equivalent to 10 tons to Low Earth Orbit (LEO) or about twice the capability of GSLV Mk II.
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GSAT-29 weighs about 3,423 kg and is designed for a mission life of 10 years. ISRO said the satellite carries Ka/Ku-band high throughput communication transponders intended to meet the communication requirements of users in remote areas.
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In addition, several new technologies such as Q/V-band payload, data transmission through optical communication link will be demonstrated. This will help in realizing future advanced satellites.
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The GSAT-29 launch is the 67th mission from Sriharikota Island. It is the 23rd launch from the second launch pad. GSLV Mk-III’s Tuesday flight is the fifth launch mission of the Isro in 2018.
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GSLV MkIII is a three-stage heavy lift launch vehicle developed by ISRO. The vehicle has two solid strap-ons as the first stage, a liquid propellant core as second stage and a cryogenic as third stage.