Communication satellite GSAT-15 successfully launched from French Guiana

Indigenously developed Communication satellite GSAT-15 of Indian Space Research Organisation was successfully launched from the spaceport of Kourou in French Guiana.
It was launched by Ariane-5 VA-227 rocket (launch vehicle) of Arianespace into a Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) along with Arabsat-6B (BADR-7) satellite of Airbus Defence and Space.

About GSAT-15

• GSAT-15 is a high power satellite being inducted into the INSAT/GSAT communication satellite system and weighs around 3,164 kg.
• Carries a total of 24 communication transponders in Ku-band along with GPS Aided GEO Augmented Navigation (GAGAN) payload operating in L1 and L5 bands
• Carries a Ku-band beacon which helps in accurately pointing ground antennas towards the satellite.
• It is the 3rd satellite to carry GAGAN payload after GSAT-8 and GSAT-10 which already are providing navigation services from orbit.
• GSAT-15 has in-orbit operational life of 12 years and will be positioned at 93.5 degree east longitude.

Applications

• GSAT-15 would enable ISRO to provide continuity of Ku-band services to Indian users.
• It would also provide other location based services to various services in the Indian region.
• Navigation payload GAGAN in the GSAT-15 would provide orbital backup to ensure safety of life navigation services in civil aviation sector.

GSAT-15 is the 19th payload launched by Arianespace for ISRO. In 2016, it is going to launch other 2 communication satellites namely GSAT-17 and GSAT-18.
It should be noted the Arianespace is a multinational company from Europe that was founded in 1980 as the world’s first commercial space launch service provider.

Month: Current Affairs - November, 2015