GSAT-29: ISRO begins countdown, launch scheduled at 5:08 PM today

ISRO begins the countdown for the launch of its communication satellite, GSAT-29. The launch will take place from Satish Dhawan Space Centre at 5:08 PM today.

The rocket carries India’s second high-throughput communication satellite into a geostationary transfer orbit. GSAT-29 has a design life of 10 years.

Live telecast of the launch can be viewed at 4:45 on DD National. It would also be streamed at isro.gov.in

GSAT-29 carries some experimental payloads such as Q band/V band payload, GEO High-Resolution Camera and Optical Communication Technology payload. The launch will take place via GSLV Mk III(Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mark III).

GSLV Mk III is a three-stage launch vehicle. It is mainly designed to launch satellites into the geostationary orbit. The third version is powered with a higher payload capacity when compared to its predecessors.

ISRO’s Twitter account is sending live updates of the launch process.