GUWAHATI: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to launch its GSAT-N2 communication satellite aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket, marking India’s first commercial collaboration with Elon Musk's aerospace company. This launch is scheduled to take place from Cape Canaveral, USA, at an estimated cost of $60-70 million.
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The GSAT-N2 satellite, also referred to as GSAT-20, aims to enable in-flight internet services across India.
The satellite has a mission lifespan of 14 years and features advanced communication technology, including 32 user beams — 8 narrow spot beams and 24 wide spot beams — supported by hub stations located within mainland India.
India’s recent regulatory changes have also paved the way for the allotment of in-flight internet services. The Government of India amended aviation rules on November 4, permitting passengers to access WiFi services on electronic devices once the aircraft reaches an altitude of 3,000 meters within Indian airspace.
ISRO opted for SpaceX’s Falcon 9 due to the satellite's weight of 4,700 kg, which exceeds the capacity of India’s Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mark-3, capable of carrying only 4,000 kg to a geostationary transfer orbit.