The GSLV Mark III rocket. Photo: Indian Space Research Organization

The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) successfully launched the GSAT-29 satellite into Geostationary Orbit (GEO), carried onboard the GSLV Mark III launch vehicle. The satellite was launched from Satish Dhawan Space Center (SDSC) in Sriharikota, off the Bay of Bengal coast located in the southern Indian state of Andhra Pradesh at 5:08 p.m. local time.

The High-Throughput Satellite (HTS) aims to increase high-speed communication facilities in the northeast, Indian-controlled Kashmir, and far-reaching areas of India. According to the ISRO, The GSAT-29 communications satellite was designed for a mission life of 10 years, and carries Ka- and Ku-band HTS communication transponders intended to meet the communication requirements of users — including those in remote areas.

Reports said this is the 67th launch from Sriharikota and the GSAT-29 is the 33rd communications satellite made by India.