Daily News Analysis » One Web Satellite Constellation

One Web Satellite Constellation

Satellite communications company OneWeb announced the arrival of 36 satellites in Sriharikota for its joint venture with NewSpace India Limited (NSIL).

Table of Content

Why in the News?

Satellite communications company OneWeb announced the arrival of 36 satellites in Sriharikota for its joint venture with NewSpace India Limited (NSIL).

Key Points:

About

OneWeb satellite constellation

The OneWeb satellite constellation is a planned network of 648 Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) Satellites.
Aim: To provide affordable high-speed internet broadband services.
OneWeb satellites will be carried onboard GSLV-Mk III, ISRO’s heaviest rocket.
Bharti Airtel, is a major investor and shareholder in OneWeb.

Low-Earth Orbit Satellites:

Low-earth orbit satellites remain relatively close to the earth’s surface, usually at an altitude of 500km-2000 km from the earth. They are mostly used for telecommunication and satellite imagery.

NewSpace India Limited (NSIL)

NSIL is the commercial arm of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
Administrative Control: Department of Space (DOS) of the Government of India.
Its mission is to enable Indian industries to develop a high-technology manufacturing base for space programmes.

Significance for India:

The arrival of OneWeb satellites in India for launch can provide a huge impetus and even more global exposure to the country’s space industry.
So far, ISRO has earned $279 million in foreign exchange by launching satellites for global clients through its commercial arm.