India’s space programme, led by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), has evolved from modest beginnings into one of the most respected space agencies in the world. Over the years, ISRO has designed and executed a range of missions—from satellite navigation, Earth observation, interplanetary exploration, to solar studies—that have not only enhanced India’s technological self-reliance but also contributed to global scientific collaboration. Its cost-effective approaches and mission diversity—from Chandrayaan and Mangalyaan to Aditya-L1 and the upcoming Gaganyaan—have become case studies in innovation.

For UPSC aspirants, ISROs journey is more than current affairs—it directly intersects with the syllabus of General Studies Paper 3 (Science & Technology), provides examples for GS Paper 2 (International Relations, Governance), and can enrich perspectives in the Essay Paper, Ethics, and even Optional subjects like Geography or PSIR. In this article, we will explore detailed insights about ISRO GSAT-6A Communication Satellite Mission —its objectives, timelines, key technologies, and strategic implications.

ISRO GSAT-6A Communication Satellite Mission Overview

As a Communication initiative, ISROs GSAT-6A Communication Satellite contributes to ISRO’s broader programmatic roadmap.To carry out its objectives, GSAT-6A Communication Satellite targeted Earth.

• As part of its launch strategy, GSAT-6A Communication Satellite used GSLV-F08 for orbital insertion.
• The vehicle was launched from Satish Dhawan Space Centre.
• The main aim of GSAT-6A Communication Satellite centered on the need to Mobile communication services.
• Alongside its primary function, GSAT-6A Communication Satellite was expected to Demonstrate 6m S-Band Unfurlable Antenna.
• Reports indicate that the mission stands at Lost contact, Failed.

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Timeline & Milestones of ISRO GSAT-6A Communication Satellite Mission

• The scheduled launch date for GSAT-6A Communication Satellite was March 29, 2018.
• Planned 10 years marks the designed end of the mission’s core operational phase.

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ISRO GSAT-6A Communication Satellite Mission Technical Specifications

I-2K bus, 6m unfurlable antenna defined the operational capabilities of GSAT-6A, supporting its deployment into Earth.ISRO confirmed that Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO), Planned GSO would allow GSAT-6A to fulfill its planned data collection and signal transmission roles.

• S-band transponders were integrated into GSAT-6A Communication Satellite to operate effectively in Earth.
• As part of the onboard communication setup, S-band were deployed to maintain consistent mission control contact.
• The design and execution of GSAT-6A Communication Satellite incorporated features like Unfurlable antenna, S-band communication.

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GSAT-6A Communication Satellite Launch Information

• On March 29, 2018, GSAT-6A Communication Satellite was sent into its designated orbit.
• GSLV-F08 served as the launch platform for GSAT-6A Communication Satellite.
• The spacecraft was sent into orbit from Satish Dhawan Space Centre.

Who are the Stakeholders & Collaborators?

The mission team was composed of personnel from ISRO.

Outputs, Applications & Impact of ISRO GSAT-6A Communication Satellite Mission

GSAT-6A Communication Satellite, launched from Satish Dhawan Space Centre, accomplished Successful launch and initial injection into orbit by GSLV-F08, demonstrating its capability.

• The budget for GSAT-6A was approximately ₹270 crore, covering all mission phases.
• ISRO has noted that GSAT-6A Communication Satellite contributes to public services including Planned for mobile communication services across India.
• Aimed to enhance secure communication for strategic users highlights the role of GSAT-6A Communication Satellite in India’s strategic space program.

ISRO GSAT-6A Communication Satellite Space Mission Risks, Failures & Mitigation

Operational phases of GSAT-6A Communication Satellite required attention to issues like Power failure during orbit raising.

• The mission’s progress was affected by events such as Loss of communication post-launch.
• Attempts to re-establish contact failed was taken after reviewing the anomalies during GSAT-6A.
• Importance of robust power systems was identified as a key takeaway from GSAT-6A Communication Satellite.

UPSC Relevance of ISRO GSAT-6A Communication Satellite Space Mission

• Static topics like types of orbits and remote sensing applications are often linked to dynamic ISRO events, which creates integrated questions.
• UPSC often expects candidates to critically evaluate the gaps or opportunities in India’s space sector, where ISROs mission track record provides factual backing.
• ISRO’s mission culture — defined by simplicity, frugality, and collaboration — embodies many values discussed in the Ethics paper, such as integrity, public service motivation, and accountability.
• For Physics or Engineering-based optionals, ISRO’s propulsion systems, orbital mechanics, or sensor technologies offer real-world illustrations of core theories.

Past UPSC Mains PYQs on ISRO Space Missions

Q1. Discuss the role of the private sector in the growth of the space industry in India. How has the governments policy of 2023 affected it? (2023, GS Paper 3 - Science & Technology)

Q2. What is India’s plan to have its own space station and how will it benefit our space programme? (2022 & 2019, GS Paper 3 - Science & Technology)

Q3. Space has been the next big frontier for mankind after sea and land. In this context, discuss Indias policy and preparedness for space wars. (2019, GS Paper 3 - Science & Technology)

Q4. Discuss the utility of the Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM) for India. (2016, GS Paper 3 - Science & Technology)

Q5. What do you understand by Standard Positioning Systems and Precision Positioning Systems in the GPS era? Discuss the advantages India perceives from its ambitious IRNSS programme employing just seven satellites. (2015, GS Paper 3 - Science & Technology)

Past UPSC Prelims PYQs on ISRO Space Missions

Q1 [2025]: GPS-Aided Geo Augmented Navigation (GAGAN) uses a system of ground stations to provide necessary augmentation. Which of the following statements is/are correct in respect of GAGAN?

I. It is designed to provide additional accuracy and integrity.
II. It will allow more uniform and high quality air traffic management.
III. It will provide benefits only in aviation but not in other modes of transportation.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

(a) I, II and III
(b) II and III only
(c) I only
(d) I and II only

Correct Answer: (d) I and II only

Explanation: Statements I and II correctly describe the core purpose and benefit of the GAGAN system. (I) GAGAN is designed to augment GPS signals by correcting for errors, which provides much greater accuracy and guarantees the integrity (reliability) of the positioning information. (II) This enhanced accuracy and reliability directly enables more precise aircraft routing and landing procedures, thus improving the uniformity and quality of air traffic management.

Q2 [2022]: If a major solar storm (solar flare) reaches the Earth, which of the following are the possible effects on the Earth?

1. GPS and navigation systems could fail.
2. Tsunamis could occur at equatorial regions.
3. Power grids could be damaged.
4. Intense auroras could occur over much of the Earth.
5. Forest fires could take place over much of the planet.
6. Orbits of the satellites could be disturbed.
7. Shortwave radio communication of the aircraft flying over polar regions could be interrupted.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1, 2, 4 and 5 only
(b) 2, 3, 5, 6 and 7 only
(c) 1, 3, 4, 6 and 7 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7

Answer: The correct answer is (c).

Explanation: A major solar storm can disrupt GPS, power grids, satellite orbits, polar radio communication, and cause auroras, but cannot trigger tsunamis or forest fires.

Q3 [2020]: The experiment will employ a trio of spacecraft flying in formation in the shape of an equilateral triangle that has sides one million kilometres long, with lasers shining between the craft.” The experiment in question refers to

(a) Voyager-2
(b) New horizons
(c) Lisa Pathfinder
(d) Evolved LISA

Answer: The correct answer is (d) Evolved LISA.

Explanation: Evolved LISA (Laser Interferometer Space Antenna) is a planned space-based gravitational wave observatory by ESA and NASA, using three spacecraft in a triangular formation with laser beams to detect cosmic gravitational waves.

Q4 [2016]: Consider the following statements:

The Mangalyaan launched by ISRO

1. is also called the Mars Orbiter Mission
2. made India the second country to have a spacecraft orbit the Mars after USA
3. made India the only country to be successful in making its spacecraft orbit the Mars in its very first attempt

Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: c) 1 and 3 only

Explanation: Mangalyaan is the informal name of Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM), launched by ISRO on 5 November 2013 and India is the only nation to date to have succeeded on its maiden attempt.

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UPSC Practice Questions on ISRO Space Missions

Q1. How many Singaporean satellites were launched by ISROs PSLV-C56 rocket in the DS-SAR mission?
1. 5
2. 6
3. 7
4. 8
Answer: 3
Solution: The correct answer is 7.

Q2. Consider the following statements about Gaganyaan mission:
1. Gaganyaan is an Indian crewed orbital spacecraft intended to be the formative spacecraft of the Indian Human Spaceflight Programme.
2. The spacecraft is being designed to carry 4 people.
3. In its maiden crewed mission, ISROs largely autonomous capsule will orbit the Earth at 400 km altitude for up to seven days.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
1. 1 only
2. 2 and 3 only
3. 1 and 3 only
4. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: 1
Solution: Gaganyaan is an Indian crewed orbital spacecraft intended to be the formative spacecraft of the Indian Human Spaceflight Programme. Hence statement 1 is correct. The Gaganyaan spacecraft is being designed to carry 3 crew members, not 4. Hence statement 2 is incorrect. In its maiden crewed mission, the Indian Space Research Organisation ISROs largely autonomous capsule will orbit the Earth at 400 km altitude for up to 3 days with a 3 crew on board. Hence statement 3 is incorrect.

Q3. Consider the following statements regarding the NISAR mission:
1. NISAR represents an equal collaboration between NASA and ISRO, marking the first time these two agencies have cooperated in the development of hardware for an Earth-observing mission.
2. NISARs advanced radar systems will comprehensively scan nearly all of Earths land and ice surfaces every 24 days.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
1. 1 only
2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: 1
Solution: NISAR represents an equal collaboration between NASA and ISRO, marking the first time these two agencies have cooperated in the development of hardware for an Earth-observing mission. Hence, statement 1 is correct. NISARs advanced radar systems will comprehensively scan nearly all of Earths land and ice surfaces every 12 days. Hence, statement 2 is incorrect.

Q4. What is the name of the satellite to be launched by the SSLV under the commercial mission named Space MAITRI?
1. Janus
2. Artemis
3. Sirius
4. Optimus
Answer: 4
Solution: Optimus is the satellite scheduled for launch by SSLV Small Satellite Launch Vehicle. The launch is part of the first dedicated commercial mission of SSLV. Optimus is designed and built by Australia-based Space Machines Company. It weighs 450 kilograms, making it the largest Australian-designed and built spacecraft to date.

Q5. Which Group Captain of the Indian Air Force is set to become the first Indian astronaut to pilot the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station ISS in 2025?
1. Ajit Krishnan
2. Shubhanshu Shukla
3. Anant Agrahari
4. Angad Prathap
Answer: 2
Solution: Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla will pilot the Axiom-4 Ax-4 mission to the International Space Station ISS in 2025, marking Indias first human presence aboard the ISS and its second government-sponsored human spaceflight since Rakesh Sharmas 1984 mission.

Q6. Consider the following statements regarding the Aditya-L1 mission:
1. Aditya-L1 is Indias first mission to study the Sun and is placed at the Sun-Earth Lagrange point 1 L1.
2. The Visible Emission Line Coronagraph VELC aboard Aditya-L1 was developed by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics IIAp, Bengaluru, to observe coronal mass ejections CMEs.
3. The Aditya-L1 mission aims to study the Moons surface and understand lunar geology.
Which of the statements given above is/are incorrect?
1. 1 only
2. 3 only
3. 1 and 2 only
4. 2 and 3 only
Answer: 2
Solution: Aditya-L1 is Indias first space-based solar mission, launched by ISRO in September 2023. The Visible Emission Line Coronagraph VELC developed by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics is one of the payloads aboard Aditya-L1. Hence, Statement 1 is correct. The mission aims to study coronal mass ejections CMEs, which are powerful explosions on the sun. Hence, Statement 2 is correct. The Aditya-L1 mission is stationed at the Sun-Earth Lagrange point 1 L1, providing an uninterrupted view of the sun. Hence, Statement 3 is incorrect.

Q7. The experiment will involve two spacecraft flying in precise formation to produce artificial solar eclipses for studying the Suns corona. The experiment in question refers to:
1. Voyager-2
2. New Horizons
3. LISA Pathfinder
4. PROBA-3
Answer: 4
Solution: The Indian Space Research Organisation ISRO successfully launched the European Space Agencys ESA PROBA-3 mission aboard the PSLV-C59 rocket. PROBA-3 is ESA's first mission dedicated to precision formation flying, involving two satellites designed to create artificial solar eclipses to study the Suns corona.

Q8. What is the name of the Lunar Polar Exploration Mission, a collaboration with Japans JAXA which was approved by Indias National Space Commission in October 2024?
1. Lupex
2. Mopex
3. SpaceX
4. Moonet
Answer: 1
Solution: The Lunar Polar Exploration Mission Lupex is a collaborative effort between Indias ISRO and Japans JAXA. This mission aims to explore the lunar south pole region, which is of significant interest due to its potential for water ice and other resources.

Q9. Which of the following is the South Asia satellite launched by India for the benefit of SAARC countries except Pakistan?
1. GSAT-7
2. GSAT-8
3. GSAT-9
4. GSAT-9A
Answer: 3
Solution: GSAT-9 is a communication satellite launched by the Indian Space Research Organisation ISRO on 5 May 2017. It was specifically designed to provide various communication applications in the South Asia region, except for Pakistan which opted out of the project.

Q10. Which cosmodrome launched Aryabhatta, the first Indian satellite?
1. American
2. German
3. Soviet
4. French
Answer: 3
Solution: Aryabhatta, the first Indian satellite, was launched by the Soviet Union on April 19, 1975. The launch took place from the Kapustin Yar rocket launch and development site. The satellite was named after the famous Indian astronomer and mathematician, Aryabhata.