CURRENT AFFAIRS
CURRENT AFFAIRS
Description
NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) announced on January 3rd that it had hired American firm SpaceX to launch an Indian communication satellite atop the Falcon 9 rocket. NSIL is the Indian Space Research Organization's (ISRO) commercial arm.
This is the first time an Indian government satellite will be launched by SpaceX's workhorse Falcon 9 launcher. The mission is planned to launch in the second quarter of 2024.
Important Information Regarding GSAT-20
GSAT-20 is the satellite that will be launched on Falcon 9. GSAT-N2 was recently rebranded. It is ISRO's latest high-capacity communication satellite, weighing 4.7 tons. NSIL's second fully sponsored satellite mission is GSAT-20.
The GSAT-20 satellite will operate in the Ka-band spectrum and will provide high-throughput satellite capacity primarily for broadband connection and cellular backhaul services.
Its coverage area includes the whole Indian mainland as well as the island chains of Andaman and Nicobar.
About The Ka-Band
Radio frequencies ranging from 27 to 40 GHz are referred to as Ka-band. Through targeted spot beams, it enables high-speed satellite data transmissions with extensive coverage.
In comparison to other bands, Ka-frequencies allow for the use of smaller satellite antennas. This lowers the total cost of creating the communication system.
Ka-bands are frequently used in satellites because they provide the necessary bandwidth and transmission speeds. The use of circular polarization also eliminates the need for sophisticated antenna adjustments during installation.
Furthermore, the same Ka-band frequency can be utilized by directing distinct spot beams to different locations. This frequency reuse improves the coverage footprint and capacity of Ka-band satellite communication systems significantly.
It achieves an optimal balance of high frequency, wide bandwidth, frequency reuse, and reasonably compact components. This makes it ideal for modern satellite-based communication networks.
About SpaceX's Falcon 9 Rocket
Elon Musk's SpaceX's reusable Falcon 9 rocket is a ground-breaking orbital-class launch platform. It has carried out over 280 successful launches and 200 re-flights of used first stages to far.
Falcon 9 has a payload mass of 22,800 kg, making it perfect for launching bigger satellites like GSAT-20. Its reuse also lowers overall launch costs.
Why Not Launch ISRO's Own Rockets?
Many foreign satellites have been launched by ISRO rockets such as the GSLV and LVM3. However, the 4.7 ton weight of GSAT-20 surpasses their lift capacities for delivering satellites to higher orbits. With the retirement of Ariane 5, SpaceX's bigger rocket emerged as the best fit.
In the long run, ISRO hopes to create more powerful semi-cryogenic engines and new reusable methane-LOX rockets capable of launching 5000 kg+ satellites without the need for external sources.
Welcome to Notopedia.com, your free learning platform that caters to the diverse needs of students and aspirants across a spectrum of entrance exams and educational endeavors. Whether you're preparing for highly anticipated exams like CAT 2023, NEET 2023, JEE Main, or bank job vacancies, our platform offers a wealth of resources to guide you towards success. Stay up-to-date with the latest exam dates, announcements, and results for various government recruitment exams, including SSC CGL, CHSL, NDA, and UPSC. Explore comprehensive study materials, sample papers, and exam patterns to hone your skills and boost your confidence. From important dates like CBSE Class 10 and 12 date sheets to exam-specific information like JEE Main 2023 application form date, we cover it all. Notopedia.com is your go-to source for everything from admissions and admit cards to scholarships and college information. Whether you're aiming for a career in defense, government, banking, or higher education, our free learning platform equips you with the knowledge and resources you need to excel. Join us in your educational journey and unlock a world of opportunities, guidance, and comprehensive support.
For more Updates and Information - Visit Notopedia's Bulletin Board
For Latest Sarkari Jobs - Visit Notopedia's Sarkari Jobs Section
For access to more than 20,000 Colleges - Visit Notopedia's College Section
For School Studies and Exams Preparation across 14 Boards - Visit Notopedia's School Section
For Comprehensive Preparation of Sarkari Job Exams - Visit Notopedia's Sarkari Exams Section
