ISRO launches GSAT-29 communication satellite

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on Wednesday launched GSLV-MK-III D2 carrying GSAT-29 satellite from Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.

Marking ISRO's fifth launch for the current year, the communication satellite carries high throughput communication transponders in the Ka and Ku bands which can expand high-speed data transfer in the remote areas of India.

The satellite launch is the second test flight for the GSLV Mark III rocket, which is also ISRO's heaviest rocket. The rocket is capable of introducing four-tonne class satellites into a geostationary transfer orbit.
With an operational life of over 10 years, the satellite weighs 3,423 kilogram during lift-off.