GSAT-8

GSAT-8 is communication satellite. It was constructed by the Indian Space Research Organisation, as part of INSAT system. GSAT-8 was launched on May 21, 2011 from Kourou, French Guiana. The rocket, an Ariane 5 was the carrier, marketed by the European Arianespace.

Launch

Prior to launch, the spacecraft was transported from India to Cayenne – Rochambeau Airport in French Guiana by an Antonov An-124 cargo aircraft. The success of the launch is said to have made up for the previous loss of two satellites on the indigenous GSLV rocket.