As on
date, there are 196 Transponders (C-Band: 79, Ext C-Band: 40, Ku-Band: 74 and
S-Band: 3) available on Indian communication satellites.
Firm requests
have been received for nearly 150 additional transponders in various frequency
bands for services such as Digital Satellite News Gathering (DSNG), TV
Broadcasting, Direct to Home (DTH), Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT)
communication etc.
Presently,
there are Nine operational INSAT/GSAT Communication
Satellites providing various services. Following three satellites would be
reaching their end of life during 12th Five Year Plan.
|
SNo.
|
Satellite (No. of
Transponders)
|
Launched on
|
Expected End of Life
|
|
1.
|
INSAT-3A (22
Transponders)
|
10.04.2003
|
December 2015
|
|
2.
|
INSAT-3C (33
Transponders)
|
24.01.2002
|
December 2016
|
|
3.
|
INSAT-3E (25
Transponders)
|
28.09.2003
|
November 2015
|
It
is not feasible to extend the life of satellites which are already in orbit.
However, additional satellites are planned to provide continuity of service for
these satellites.
For 13
Indian communication satellites planned to be launched during 12th Five
Year Plan period, sufficient orbital slots are available. However, for one high
throughput communication Satellite in Ka band, proposed to be launched by the
end of the 12th Five Year Plan period, actions are underway to
coordinate with the International Agency concerned, for an appropriate orbital slot.
Further, ISRO has plans to coordinate additional slots to meet future demand.
The above
information was given by the Minister
of State in the Ministry Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions and in the
Prime Minister’s Office, Shri V. Narayanasamy
to the Parliament.
MC/sk