GSAT-9 launch: ISRO successfully launches South Asia communication satellite from Sriharikota [Watch]

India on Friday successfully launched GSLV-F09 carrying the GSAT-9 satellite or South Asia satellite, from the second launch pad at Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh.

News Desk
May 05, 2017

India on Friday successfully launched Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV-F09) carrying the GSAT-9 satellite, which is popularly known as the South Asia satellite, from the second launch pad (SLP) at Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh. While the 28-hour countdown for the launch began at 12:57 PM on May 4, 2017, the rocket blasted off 4:57 PM on May 5, 2017.

GSAT-9 satellite has been launched to provide different communication application in the Ku-band with coverage over the South Asian nations. “GSAT-9 is configured around the ISRO’s standard I-2K bus, with a lift-off mass of 2,230 kg. The main structure of the satellite is cuboid in shape built around a central cylinder with a mission life of more than 12 years,” Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) wrote on its website.

GSLV is 49-metres long and weighs 450 tonnes. It is a three-stage rocket, wherein the first stage is fired using solid fuel, the second uses liquid fuel and the third stage uses a cryogenic engine (in which gases are liquefied and stored at extremely low temperatures).

Talking about the launch during his radio show ‘Mann Ki Baat’, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said that the satellite would go a long way in addressing the economic and developmental priorities of the region. “It is an important step by India to enhance cooperation with the entire South Asia…It is an invaluable gift. This is an appropriate example of our commitment towards South Asia. I welcome all the South Asian countries who have joined us on this momentous endeavour,” he had said.

ALSO READ: ISRO to launch GSAT-9 ‘India’s gift to SAARC’ on May 5

I congratulate the team of scientists who worked hard for the successful launch of South Asia Satellite. We are very proud of them: PM Modi

— ANI (@ANI_news) May 5, 2017

Successful launch of South Asian Satellite is a historic moment. It opens up new horizons of engagement: PM Narendra Modi pic.twitter.com/GpCDgN8HDF

— ANI (@ANI_news) May 5, 2017

Interestingly, the ‘GSAT-9 satellite was initially known as the ‘SAARC’ satellite. However, it was renamed as the ‘South Asia’ satellite, after Pakistan pulled out of the project.