NSSDCA/COSPAR ID: 2011-022A
GSAT 8, an Indian communications satellite, was launched from Kourou on 20 May 2011 at 20:38 UT by an Ariane 5 rocket. The satellite weighed approximately 3.1 tonnes and will augment India's INSAT communications satellite fleet. GSAT 8 will be used for direct-to-home broadcasting, data collection, news-gathering and other domestic needs. The satellite also carries a radio navigation instrument called GAGAN (GPS Aided Geo Augmented Navigation) to augment GPS navigation signals. It is the first of multiple satellites with the GAGAN payload, which is designed to improve air navigation in India. After a series of rocket burns to guide GSAT 8 it will eventually park along the equator at 55 degrees E longitude. It has a design life of 12 years.
Launch Date: 2011-05-20
Launch Vehicle: Ariane 5
Launch Site: Kourou, French Guiana
Questions and comments about this spacecraft can be directed to: Coordinated Request and User Support Office