GSLV-F11 injects GSAT-7A into orbit

ISRO's geosynchronous launch vehicle Wednesday successfully injected into orbit the country's latest advanced satellite that will substantially enhance the communication systems of the Indian Air Force.

After a 26-hour countdown, the GSLV-F11, carrying the 2,250kg GSAT-7A, lifted off at 4.10 pm from the second launch pad at Sriharikota, situated about 110 km from Chennai.

Around 19 minutes after lift-off, the GSLV-F11 injected GSAT-7A into the intended orbit. It will be placed in its final geostationary orbit using the onboard propulsion systems.

According to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), the satellite would take a few days after separation from the launcher to reach its orbital slot.

ISRO scientists broke into cheers as the satellite was injected into orbit.

According to the space agency officials, the advanced communication satellite would facilitate exclusive frequency flight communication for the IAF.

From the Mission Control Centre, ISRO Chairman K Sivan said Wednesday's "successful and safe" launch was the third one in 35 days and came close on the heels of the "grand success" of two missions in November.

The GSLV-F11 successfully injected the "advanced" communication GSAT-7A into orbit, an elated Sivan said, describing the mission as "wonderful."