GSLV – Mk III D1/GSAT-19 takes India to next generation Launch Vehicle

Last Updated on July 8, 2017 by Bharat Saini

GSAT-19 advanced communication satellite lifted into space with successful launch of GSLV Mk III by Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) from the spaceport at Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh on June 5, 2017 and with this India once again scripted history. Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mark-III or Mk3 D-1 injected the 3,136-kg GSAT-19, heaviest satellite launched from the country till now, into Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit about 16 minutes after its launch at 5.28 pm.

• GSLV Mk III Rocket is capable of launching 4 ton class of satellites to Geosynchronous Transfer orbit (GTO) and 10,000 kgs into Low Earth Orbit.
• With a lift-off weigh of 640 tons, GSLV Mk III vehicle, which is powered by two solid motor strap-ons (S200), a liquid propellant core stage (L110) and cryogenic stage (C25), has been designed for carrying heavier four tons class satellites.
• It carries Ka/Ku-band high throughput communication transponders and is the heaviest satellite to be built and launched from the country.
• Billed as a potential game changer satellite, GSAT-19 is equivalent to having a constellation of 6-7 of the older variety of communication satellites in space.
• On its maiden development flight, the 43.43 metre tall three-stage GSLV Mk III-D1 is expected to be the choice of India for taking humans into space in future likely to be named ‘Gaganauts or Vyomanauts’ (Astronauts).
• Prior to the successful launch, ISRO had to rely on foreign launchers for communication satellites weighing more than 2,300 kg.
• This success caps 15 years of untiring efforts by ISRO which had to overcome several hurdles in cracking the complex cryogenic technology and developing its own C-25 engine used in GSLV Mk III – D1.
• It was a textbook launch as every stage of the three- stage GSLV Mk III with indigenous cryogenic engine, performed without any flaw after the powerful rocket blasted off leaving plumes of smoke and soared into sky.
• GSAT-19 is a next generation communications satellite for India that will augment India’s communication resources. A truly ‘made in India’ satellite that will empower a digital India that is in the making.

ISRO Chairman A S Kiran Kumar termed the launch as “a historic day” and added “I wish to congratulate the entire team which has relentlessly worked each day for today’s launch from 2002”. President Pranab Mukherjee said the nation was proud of ISRO’s achievement. Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to twitter and said, “Congratulations to the dedicated scientists of ISRO for the successful launch of GSLV – MK III D1/GSAT-19 mission” & “The GSLV – Mk III D1/GSAT-19 mission takes India closer to the next generation launch vehicle and satellite capability. The nation is proud!”