(a) whether the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has not been able to launch heavy satellites so far;
(b) if so, the details thereof and the reasons for the same;
(c) the number of heavy satellites that have been launched from foreign destinations so far;
(d) whether ISRO is working on any programme for launching heavy satellites in the country; and
(e) if so, the details thereof and the time by which it is likely to be materialised?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PERSONNEL, PG & PENSIONS AND IN THE PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE
(DR. JITENDRA SINGH):
(a) & (b)
The Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mark III (GSLV Mk-III) of ISRO is capable of launching 4 tonne class of satellites to Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO). The GSAT-29 communication satellite, weighing 3423 kg, is the heaviest satellite launched from Indian soil by GSLV Mk-III recently on 14.11.2018. The heaviest satellite built by ISRO so far i.e. GSAT-11, weighing 5854 kg, was launched on 05.12.2018 by Ariane 5 rocket from French Guiana.
(c) Till now, fourteen heavy satellites (weighing more than 2200 kg) were launched from foreign destinations.
(d) Yes, Madam.
(e) ISRO has taken up the development of a Semi-Cryogenic stage and uprated Cryogenic engine & stage, which is expected to be completed by 2020-21. Induction of these stages in GSLV Mk-III will enhance the GTO payload capability to 5 tonne class.
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