The GSAT-20 communications satellite, developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), is set to launch aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket on November 19, 2024. The launch will take place at Cape Canaveral, Florida, marking the first commercial collaboration between the two organizations.
Weighing 4,700 kilograms, GSAT-20 is designed to enhance India’s communication network. The satellite features a Ka-band high-throughput payload and a mission lifespan of 14 years. Its weight exceeds the 4,000-kilogram capacity of ISRO’s LVM-3 launch vehicle for Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit, necessitating the use of SpaceX’s capabilities.
Once operational, GSAT-20 will provide services such as internet connectivity for remote regions and in-flight internet access. The satellite includes 32 user beams—eight narrow spot beams and 24 wide spot beams—supported by hub stations across India.
This collaboration comes as India adapts its satellite launch strategy. Previously reliant on European launch services, ISRO has faced limited options due to the unavailability of Arianespace rockets and geopolitical constraints with Russia and China.
The mission is separate from but connected to an upcoming project involving an Indian astronaut’s training for a 2025 mission to the International Space Station. While SpaceX is not directly managing the astronaut’s journey, the Dragon spacecraft used for the mission is part of its fleet.
The GSAT-20 launch reflects ISRO’s growing reliance on international partnerships to meet expanding demands in space technology.