ISRO to launch 36 satellites of UK’s global communications network OneWeb

Tags: Defence Science and Technology

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will launch 36 satellites of OneWeb, the UK's global communications network, on October 23, 2022.

Important facts

• The name of the rocket is LVM3, it was earlier called GSLV Mk III.

• It is India’s heaviest satellite, and is being facilitated by Space PSU NewSpace India Limited (NSIL).

• NSIL has signed two launch service contracts with OneWeb for launching the firm’s LEO (low Earth orbit) broadband communication satellites onboard the GSLV-Mk3.

• The space PSU has at least six commercial missions planned in the next few months.

• This is the first time that India’s heaviest rocket is being used for a commercial launch.

What is OneWeb?

• It is a global communications company that aims to distribute broadband satellite Internet worldwide through a fleet of LEO satellites.

• The OneWeb satellites are built at a OneWeb and Airbus joint venture facility in Florida that can produce two satellites a day.

• The launch roll-out of the satellites has been facilitated by the French company Arianespace using Russian-made Soyuz rockets.

• Moreover, this will be the first time that a rocket other than India's workhorse – the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) is being used for a commercial launch.