ISRO successfully launches communication satellite GSAT-29

Sriharikotta, November 14:

In a major boost to the communication facilities in remote areas of Jammu and Kashmir and the North east region under the Digital India programme, GSAT-29 communication satellite was successfully launched by the second developmental flight of Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle MarkIII (GSLV MkIII-D2) on Wednesday from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC), SHAR, Range.

After the 26 hour countdown, GSLV MkIII-D2 lifted off from the Second Launch Pad at 1708 hrs carrying the 3423-kg GSAT-29 satellite. About 17 minutes later, the vehicle injected the satellite into the Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) as planned.

After injection, ISRO’s Master Control Facility at Hassan has assumed the control of the satellite. ”In the coming days, three orbit raising manoeuvers will be executed to position the satellite in the Geostationary Orbit at its designated location”, ISRO Chairman Dr K Sivan said.

Addressing the scientists at the Mission Control Centre after the successful launch, he said “India has achieved a significant milestone with our heaviest launcher lifting off the heaviest satellite from the Indian soil.”The launch vehicle has precisely placed the satellite in its intended orbit. ”I congratulate entire ISRO team for this achievement”, he said.

Declaring GSLV MKIII operational, Dr Sivan announced that Chandrayaan-2 and Gaganyaan missions will be launched by this heavy-lifter.