SpaceX launches Isro’s GSAT-20 satellite into orbit GSAT-20 designed to boost India’s communication network Falcon 9’s booster successfully lands after the mission Advertisement SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket has successfully launched the Indian Space Research Organisation's (ISRO) GSAT-20, a sophisticated communication satellite, on November 19. The mission took place at 12:01 am from the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. The satellite, weighing 4,700kg, was deployed into geosynchronous transfer orbit after a 34-minute flight. This was the Elon Musk-headed company's first launch of an ISRO satellite, conducted through NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), ISRO's commercial arm. Satellite Details and Objectives The GSAT-20 satellite, also referred to as GSAT-N2, has been designed to enhance India's communication infrastructure. Equipped with a Ka-band high-throughput communications payload, the satellite offers a capacity of 48 Gbps. Its 32 user beams include eight narrow beams for India's northeastern region and 24 wide beams covering the rest of the country. The beams are supported by ground hub stations within mainland India. The satellite also features advanced Ka-Ka band transponders, facilitating reliable internet services in remote areas such as the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep. It will cater to inflight and maritime communication needs, ensuring broader connectivity across the nation. The satellite has a mission lifespan of 14 years.