Arianespace to launch GSAT 7 and INSAT 3D satellites for India

17 October 2012

 

After issuing an international call for tenders, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has chosen Arianespace to launch the GSAT 7 and INSAT 3D satellites. The contract also includes two more launch options for ISRO, the Indian space agency.

GSAT 7 and INSAT-3D are scheduled for launch in the second quarter of 2013. Both satellites will be launched by Ariane 5 launchers from the Guiana Space Center, Europe's Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana.

GSAT 7: a telecommunications satellite for India

Designed and built by ISRO, GSAT 7 will weigh 2,550 kg at launch. It is a multiband telecommunications satellite.

INSAT 3D weather satellite

Built by ISRO, INSAT 3D is a dedicated weather satellite. It will weigh 2,100 kg at launch, offering 1,100 W of power. INSAT 3D will carry weather forecasting payloads, along with a search & rescue function.