NSIL-SpaceX groundbreaking partnership

- NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), the commercial subsidiary of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), and SpaceX, the American aerospace manufacturer owned by Elon Musk, have formed a historic partnership.

- The development marks India's first collaboration with SpaceX and signifies a substantial stride in space exploration and satellite deployment.

- The GSAT-20 (now GSAT-N2) will be launched on-board SpaceX's Falcon-9 rocket in 2024.

Unfolding the potential of GSAT-N2 Satellite

- GSAT-20 or GSAT-N2 is an advanced Ka-band HTS (High Throughput Satellite) engineered to tackle the burgeoning broadband communication demands in India.

- It's the first Ka-band HTS satellite with capabilities of supporting digital video and audio transmission and high-speed broadband internet services.

- The satellite comprises 32 beams offering pan-India coverage, weighing 4,700 kg, and with a capacity reaching 48 Gbps.

- GSAT-20 is particularly inclined towards addressing the communication needs of remote and disconnected regions in India, including locations like Andaman and Nicobar and Lakshadweep islands.

Falcon-9 – A technological breakthrough

- Falcon 9, a cutting-edge invention by SpaceX, will facilitate the GSAT-20 launch.

- As the world's first orbital class reusable rocket, it is reputed for its safety and reliability in transporting payloads. Falcon 9 has significantly brought down the costs of space access.

Joint Venture and Elon Musk's Vision

- This joint venture not only allows India's entry into a new phase of space exploration but also comes in line with Elon Musk's vision of extending his Starlink satellite broadband project to India.

- The SpaceX CEO, who is also at the helm of electric car giant Tesla, foresees the GSAT-20 launch as a cornerstone of his plan.

'Demand Driven Satellite Missions' and GSAT-20

- Upholding the Indian government's space sector reforms initiated in June 2020, NSIL is commissioned to handle 'Demand Driven satellite missions.'

- GSAT-20 is in sync with this vision, offering Ka-band HTS capacity primarily for broadband, In-Flight and Maritime Connectivity (IFMC), and cellular backhaul service needs, thereby ensuring cost-effectiveness.

- The GSAT-20 is on course to be launched by the second quarter of 2024, further reinforcing India's spot as a significant player in global space exploration.