India’s space agency, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), has made its first major deal with Elon Musk’s SpaceX, marking a significant step in the nation’s space exploration efforts. Early next week, SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket will launch India’s most advanced communications satellite, GSAT-20 (also called GSAT N-2), into orbit. This marks the beginning of a new era of commercial space collaborations between ISRO and SpaceX, which could change the landscape of satellite launches for India.
India’s Satellite Launch Needs and SpaceX’s Role
ISRO’s GSAT-20 satellite, with a lift-off mass of 4,700 kg, is too heavy for India’s current launch vehicles, including the ‘Bahubali’ Launch Vehicle Mark-3, which can carry a maximum of 4,100 kg. While India previously relied on Arianespace for heavy satellite launches, that company’s rockets are not currently operational. With Chinese rockets being off-limits due to geopolitical tensions and Russia unable to offer commercial launches due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, SpaceX has emerged as a reliable and competitive option for ISRO.
The launch of GSAT-20 is purely commercial, facilitated by New Space India Ltd (NSIL), the Bengaluru-based commercial arm of ISRO. SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket, which is known for its reusability and cost-effectiveness, will carry the satellite into space from Cape Canaveral in the United States. This partnership is expected to foster a new wave of satellite launches for India, positioning SpaceX as a key player in India’s space programmes moving forward.
A Strategic Move with Strong Political Ties
The timing and optics of this launch also coincide with a period of strong political ties between the US and India. US President-elect Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi share a close personal rapport, and SpaceX’s founder, Elon Musk, is well-regarded by both leaders. Musk has previously expressed his admiration for Modi, stating that he is a fan of the Indian Prime Minister. The shared political connections raise questions about the commercial ties, but the deals were made well in advance of the American elections, and critics have refrained from accusing either government of crony capitalism.
The GSAT-20: A Cutting-Edge Communications Satellite
The GSAT-20 satellite, weighing 4,700 kg, is designed for a mission life of 14 years. It is equipped with 32 user beams, including eight narrow spot beams over northeastern India and 24 wide spot beams covering the rest of the country. This satellite will significantly enhance communication capabilities across India, facilitating services such as broadband internet, direct-to-home (DTH) television, and secure communications. Notably, the GSAT-20 will also enable in-flight internet connectivity.
SpaceX’s Growing Influence in India’s Space Program
SpaceX’s influence on India’s space programme is not limited to this satellite launch. The company is also involved in facilitating human space missions, with another deal to send an Indian astronaut to the International Space Station (ISS) aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 and Crew Dragon system. This deal with Axiom Space, a Houston-based company, is expected to cost around $60 million.
Elon Musk has also expressed interest in bringing his satellite-based internet service, Starlink, to India. In June 2023, Musk told PM Modi that he was excited about the potential of India and the promise it holds for SpaceX’s future. Musk’s push for Starlink to operate in India has faced some regulatory hurdles, with the Telecom Minister, Jyotiraditya Scindia, stating that the service is still in the process of meeting India’s security requirements before it can be licensed.
Looking Ahead: SpaceX’s Growing Partnership with India
The successful launch of the GSAT-20 satellite and other commercial deals could pave the way for more collaborations between ISRO and SpaceX. SpaceX’s affordable and reliable rockets make it a strong contender in the global space market, and India’s space ambitions are likely to benefit from this partnership in the coming years. While the US-based company might face some competition, it remains the leader in low-cost launches, positioning itself as a crucial partner for ISRO’s future space missions.
The deal also reflects the broader trend of increasing cooperation between the US and India, both in commercial and diplomatic spaces. As India strengthens its presence in global space exploration, SpaceX is expected to play an essential role in launching satellites and supporting ambitious missions, making this collaboration a milestone for both nations.
A New Chapter for India’s Space Exploration
The partnership between ISRO and SpaceX marks the beginning of a new chapter in India’s space exploration. With successful satellite launches and potential human spaceflight collaborations, both countries are set to benefit from this growing relationship. As India continues to pursue ambitious space missions, SpaceX’s role in launching satellites and providing technical support will be crucial, bringing the nation closer to achieving its space goals.
(With agency inputs)