India's Communication Satellite GSAT-16 Launched Successfully

It will replace INSAT-3E, decommissioned prematurely in April. It is the 18th satellite launched by Arianespace for Isro.

The DIRECTV-14 spacecraft was deployed first in the flight sequence, separating from Ariane 5 nearly 28 minutes after liftoff, followed four minutes later by its GSAT-16 co-passenger, Arianespace said.

Delivering a total payload lift performance of approximately 10,200 kg, the mission — designated Flight VA221 in Arianespace's numbering system — lofted DIRECTV-14 for operator DIRECTV, along with GSAT-16.

The capacity crunch has forced Isro to lease 95 transponders on foreign satellites mainly for private TV broadcasters' use.

The satellite will boost public and private TV and radio services, large-scale Internet and telephone operations.

GSAT-16 will be finally positioned at 55 deg East longitude in the geostationary orbit and co-located with GSAT-8, IRNSS-1A and IRNSS-1B satellites.

India's rockets PSLV and the present GSLV do not have the capability to launch satellites of more than two tonne class, prompting Isro to opt for an outside launch.

Isro is developing the next big launcher, GSLV-MkIII, which can put satellites of up to 4 tonnes in orbit.

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