# GSAT-16

> Indian communication satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q17019715](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q17019715)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GSAT-16)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/gsat-16

## Summary  
GSAT-16 is an Indian communications satellite launched on December 6, 2014, to enhance domestic telecommunications and broadcasting services. It was developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and deployed into geostationary orbit using an Ariane 5 ECA launch vehicle from Europe’s ELA-3 launch site. The satellite plays a key role in expanding India's communication infrastructure.

## Key Facts  
- Launched on December 6, 2014, from ELA-3 launch site by Ariane 5 ECA rocket  
- Operated by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)  
- Mass: 3181.6 kilograms  
- COSPAR ID: 2014-078A  
- Instance of: Communications satellite  
- Launch event classified as a significant event with location (ELA-3) and date qualifier  
- Aliases: GSAT 16  
- Freebase ID: /m/0y67q2s  
- Wikidata description: Indian communication satellite  

## FAQs  
### Q: What is GSAT-16 used for?  
A: GSAT-16 is a communications satellite designed to provide enhanced telecommunications, television broadcasting, and data transmission services across India. It supports both Ku-band and C-band payloads for improved coverage and service delivery.

### Q: Who launched GSAT-16 and when?  
A: GSAT-16 was launched on December 6, 2014, by the European launch vehicle Ariane 5 ECA from the ELA-3 launch site in French Guiana.

### Q: How much does GSAT-16 weigh?  
A: GSAT-16 has a mass of approximately 3181.6 kilograms at launch.

## Why It Matters  
GSAT-16 represents a critical addition to India's growing fleet of communication satellites managed by ISRO. By augmenting existing capacity through advanced Ku-band and C-band transponders, it enhances connectivity for telecommunication networks, digital broadcasting, and direct-to-home (DTH) services throughout the country. Its deployment reflects India’s strategic investment in self-reliant space-based communication infrastructure, reducing dependency on foreign satellites while supporting socio-economic development through better access to information and media services.

## Notable For  
- One of ISRO's heaviest communication satellites at time of launch  
- First Indian spacecraft launched aboard Ariane 5 ECA after earlier GSAT missions used GSLV  
- Supports dual-band operation (Ku-band and C-band), increasing flexibility and utility  
- Part of ISRO’s broader initiative to modernize national satellite communications infrastructure  

## Body  
### Mission Overview  
GSAT-16 is a high-capacity communications satellite operated by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Designed primarily for telecommunications and broadcasting applications, it serves as a replacement and enhancement to older satellites like INSAT-3E and GSAT-3.

### Technical Specifications  
- **Mass:** 3181.6 kg  
- **Bands Supported:** Ku-band and C-band  
- **Orbit Type:** Geostationary Orbit  
- **SCN (Spacecraft Number):** 40332  

The satellite carries multiple transponders enabling wide-area coverage over India and neighboring regions. These capabilities support various services including DTH television, VSAT networks, digital satellite news gathering, and tele-education/telemedicine programs.

### Launch Details  
- **Launch Date:** December 6, 2014  
- **Launch Vehicle:** Ariane 5 ECA  
- **Launch Site:** ELA-3, Kourou, French Guiana  
- **COSPAR ID:** 2014-078A  

This marked one of several commercial launches arranged via Arianespace under agreements between ISRO and international partners.

### Operational Role  
Operated by ISRO, GSAT-16 contributes significantly to India's domestic communication needs. It ensures reliable bandwidth availability for government agencies, private telecom operators, broadcasters, and educational institutions. As part of ISRO’s long-term strategy, GSAT-16 strengthens India’s indigenous satellite communication ecosystem and reduces reliance on leased capacity from other nations.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report
2. [Source](https://www.isro.gov.in/spacecraft/list-of-communication-satellites)
3. Quora