# INSAT-3C

> 27298

**Wikidata**: [Q5972405](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q5972405)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/INSAT-3C)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/insat-3c

## Summary
INSAT-3C is a geostationary communications satellite operated by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Launched on January 23, 2002, via an Ariane 42L rocket from the ELA-2 launch site, it serves as an artificial satellite designed for telecommunications. The spacecraft has a mass of 2,650 kilograms and is cataloged under the Satellite Catalog Number 27298.

## Key Facts
- **Classification:** INSAT-3C is a communications satellite (artificial satellite designed for telecommunications).
- **Operator:** The satellite is operated and owned by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
- **Launch Date:** It was launched on January 23, 2002.
- **Launch Vehicle:** The launch was conducted using an Ariane 42L rocket.
- **Launch Site:** The launch originated from ELA-2.
- **Mass:** The satellite weighs 2,650 kilograms.
- **Orbit:** It is positioned in a geostationary orbit.
- **Identifiers:** The COSPAR ID is 2002-002A and the Satellite Catalog Number (SCN) is 27298.
- **Country:** India.

## FAQs
### Q: When was INSAT-3C launched?
A: INSAT-3C was launched on January 23, 2002. It was sent into orbit from the ELA-2 launch site.

### Q: Who built and operates INSAT-3C?
A: INSAT-3C is owned and operated by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). It serves as a communications satellite for the country of India.

### Q: What rocket was used to launch INSAT-3C?
A: The satellite was launched aboard an Ariane 42L rocket. This vehicle is part of the Ariane 4 series of rockets.

## Why It Matters
INSAT-3C serves as a significant component of India's space-based telecommunications infrastructure. As a heavy satellite weighing 2,650 kilograms, it represents a substantial commitment by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to enhancing connectivity capabilities from geostationary orbit. Launched in early 2002, it contributed to the continuity and expansion of communication services vital for the region. Its deployment via the Ariane 42L launch vehicle highlights the international collaboration often involved in placing heavy geostationary payloads into orbit during that era. By maintaining a position in geostationary orbit, INSAT-3C provides fixed coverage, ensuring reliable telecommunications relay for its intended service area.

## Notable For
- Being a heavy-class communications satellite with a mass of 2,650 kg.
- Operation by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
- Launch aboard the Ariane 42L, a variant of the Ariane 4 rocket family.
- Positioning in geostationary orbit to support telecommunications.
- Being identified by the unique Satellite Catalog Number 27298.

## Body
### Mission Overview
INSAT-3C is an artificial satellite designed specifically for telecommunications. It is part of the Indian National Satellite System (INSAT), a series of multipurpose geostationary satellites launched by ISRO to address the telecommunications, television, and meteorological needs of India.

### Launch and Deployment
The satellite successfully launched on **January 23, 2002**. The mission utilized the **Ariane 42L** rocket configuration, which is part of the Ariane 4 series. The launch took place at **ELA-2** (Ensemble de Lancement Ariane 2), a launch pad located at the Guiana Space Centre. The launch event is classified as a significant rocket launch event in the satellite's operational timeline.

### Technical Specifications
The spacecraft has a total mass of **2,650 kilograms**. It is designed to operate in a **geostationary orbit**, which allows it to maintain a fixed position relative to the Earth's surface. This orbit is essential for its function as a stable telecommunications relay platform.

### Identifiers and Classification
- **COSPAR ID:** 2002-002A
- **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN):** 27298
- **Wolfram Language Entity Code:** `Entity["Satellite", "27298"]`
- **Instance of:** Communications satellite

## References

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