Overview
GSAT‑19 is an Indian geostationary communications satellite built by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). It was designed to provide a range of telecommunication services, including broadband internet, television broadcasting, and data communication across the Indian subcontinent and surrounding regions. The satellite forms part of ISRO’s GSAT series of communication satellites intended to augment and expand the capacity of India’s satellite communication network.
Launch
- Date: 5 June 2017 (UTC)
- Launch vehicle: Ariane 5 ECA (flight VA235)
- Launch site: Centre Spatial Guyanais (Kourou, French Guiana)
- Operator: ISRO
The launch was conducted under a commercial agreement between ISRO and Arianespace, marking one of several Indian satellites placed into orbit using the Ariane 5 launch system.
Spacecraft Bus and Mass
- Bus: I‑3K (ISRO’s 3,000 kg class satellite platform)
- Launch mass: Approximately 3,423 kg (including propellant)
The I‑3K bus provides a modular structure that supports a variety of payload configurations for communication missions, incorporating electric and chemical propulsion for orbit raising and station‑keeping.
Payload
GSAT‑19 carries a mixed‑band payload consisting of:
- Ku‑band transponders: 24
- Ka‑band transponders: 12
- C‑band transponders: 2 (reported in some specifications)
The combination of Ku‑ and Ka‑band transponders enables high‑throughput services, supporting broadband internet connectivity and high‑definition television broadcasting. The Ka‑band payload, in particular, is intended to deliver higher data rates for broadband services.
Orbit and Operational Details
- Orbit type: Geostationary Earth orbit (GEO)
- Orbital slot: 93.5° East longitude (allocated by the International Telecommunication Union)
- Mission duration: Designed for a nominal operational life of 12 years, with on‑board fuel reserves sufficient for station‑keeping throughout this period.
Following successful orbital insertion and on‑orbit testing, GSAT‑19 entered commercial service, augmenting ISRO’s capacity to deliver communication services to governmental, corporate, and residential customers.
Purpose and Services
The satellite’s primary objectives include:
- Providing broadband connectivity to remote and underserved regions of India.
- Enhancing television broadcasting capabilities, including high‑definition and direct‑to‑home (DTH) services.
- Offering communication links for governmental and defense applications.
- Supporting disaster management and emergency communication networks.
By expanding the bandwidth and coverage offered by the existing GSAT constellation, GSAT‑19 contributes to ISRO’s broader goal of establishing a resilient and high‑capacity satellite communication infrastructure for the nation.