Zee Media Bureau
Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to launch GSAT-7 satellite, India`s first dedicated spacecraft for defence applications, onboard the European Space Agency’s Ariane-5 launch vehicle from the Kourou Island, French Guiana on Friday.
10 facts about GSAT-7
1. GSAT-7 will be the 17th ISRO spacecraft lofted by an Ariane-series vehicle
2. The satellite costs Rs 185 crore and it cost a further Rs 470 crore to launch it
3. GSAT-7 is a geo-stationary communication satellite designed to suit the Navy`s telecommunication needs
4. It weighs 2,330 kilograms (5,100 lb)
5. Onboard solar arrays can generate 2900 W of electrical power
6. Its payloads operate in UHF, S, C and Ku bands
7. The satellite can function during the eclipse period using A108 Ampere-Hour Lithium-Ion batteries
8. The propulsion subsystem has a 440 Newton Liquid Apogee Motor (LAM) and thrusters
9. The satellite is adapted from India`s I-2K spacecraft bus, which also was used for the
INSAT-3D satellite.
10. It will be positioned at 74° East
