20.12.18

Gsat-7A

With the launch of communication satellite Gsat-7A from Sriharikota, Indian Space Research Organisation has not only provided the Indian Air Force with its own ‘eye in the sky’ but achieved a milestone by launching three satellites in just 35 days.

The two other satellites launched in just over a month were communication satellite Gsat-29 (November 14) and hyperspectral imaging satellite HysiS (November 29).

If India’s heaviest communication satellite Gsat-11 launched from the European spaceport is also taken into account, then the number of satellites launched in just 35 days comes to four, a big achievement for the space agency.

Soon after GSLV-F11 rocket injected Gsat-7A into the geo transfer orbit, Isro chairman K Sivan said, “With today’s launch, we have achieved several milestones. We are successful in launching three missions in just 35 days. Gsat-7A is the third communication satellite to be launched in 35 days. Gsat-7A is also the heaviest satellite lifted off by an indigenously developed cryogenic stage. An advanced Gregorian antenna has been used this time that will improve the performance of the satellite. This launch (7th mission) was the last Isro mission of 2018.”

Gsat-7A will work as a force multiplier for the IAF as it will interlink all its assets like fighter aircraft, AWACS aircraft, drones and ground radar stations and airbases, building a centralised network.

IAF chief Air Chief Marshal B S Dhanoa said Gsat-7A will enhance the networking and communication capabilities of the force.

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