GSAT-6A gives India bigger eye in the sky

GSAT-6A gives India bigger eye in the sky

Context

Launch of GSAT-6A by ISRO

What has happened?

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully placed a communication satellite GSAT-6A in a geosynchronous transfer orbit. It was carried on board the GSLV F-08 from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre

A Communication Satellite

• Vikas Engine:The GSAT-6A is a communication satellite that incorporates the high-thrust Vikas engine
• Complement GSAT-6:It will complement the GSAT-6, which is already in orbit
• Antenna of 6m in diameter:The GSAT-6A’s antenna has a diameter of six metres — it can be unfurled and opened like an umbrella once it reaches its prescribed orbit

Impact

These two satellites i.e. GSAT-6 and GSAT-6A combined will provide platforms for development of advanced technologies such as the unfurlable antenna, hand-held devices, and ground networks