Context: For the first time, NewSpace India Ltd (NSIL), the commercial arm of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will launch  GSAT-20 (renamed as GSAT-N2), a communication satellite on SpaceX’s Falcon-9 rocket.

NSIL to launch GSAT-20 satellite on SpaceX Falcon 9

• GSAT-20 (renamed as GSAT-N2) will be the second “demand-driven” satellite launch enabled by NSIL. 
• In June 2022, NSIL launched the 1st Demand-driven satellite mission, in the form of GSAT-24 whose entire capacity was bought by Tata Play, a Direct-To-Home broadcaster.

About GSAT-20 (Renamed as GSAT-N2):

• A High-throughput Satellite: It is a high throughput Ka-band satellite, which delivers high-speed broadband internet connectivity and digital video and audio transmission.
• Funded by: NewSpace India Ltd (NSIL) 
• Specifications: It offers HTS capacity of nearly 48 gbps.

• Aim: To meet the broadband communication needs of the country.
• Significance: 
  • Provide high data transmission capability over the entire country.
  • Support In-Flight and Maritime Connectivity (IFMC) and cellular backhaul services across India.
  • Meet the requirements of remote and previously unconnected regions, bridging the digital divide and fostering inclusive growth.

About Falcon-9 Rocket

• A Reusable Rocket: It is the world’s first orbital class reusable, two-stage rocket designed and manufactured by SpaceX for the reliable and safe transport of people and payloads into Earth orbit and beyond.
  • It can carry over 8,300 kg (double that weight) to Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO). 
• Significance: Reusability allows SpaceX to re-fly the most expensive parts of the rocket, which in a result lowers the cost of space access.

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News Source: The Indian Express