On November 19, 2024, SpaceX successfully launched the Indian Space Research Organisation's (ISRO) GSAT-20 communication satellite aboard its Falcon 9 rocket. The mission, which took place at 12:01 AM from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida, marked a milestone as SpaceX's first-ever launch of an ISRO satellite. The GSAT-20, weighing 4,700 kg, was deployed into geosynchronous transfer orbit after a 34-minute flight, fulfilling its mission to improve India's communication infrastructure.

The GSAT-20 satellite, also known as GSAT-N2, is equipped with advanced Ka-band high-throughput communications technology, offering a capacity of 48 Gbps. Its 32 user beams, which include eight narrow beams for India's northeastern regions and 24 wide beams for the rest of the country, will provide reliable internet services and support maritime and inflight communication. The satellite's mission lifespan is expected to be 14 years.

ISRO's choice to partner with SpaceX for this launch was influenced by the logistical challenges associated with the satellite's weight, which exceeded the payload capacity of India's heaviest launch vehicle. Additionally, geopolitical issues and the unavailability of other international launch options made SpaceX the best choice for the mission.

The Falcon 9 rocket's first-stage booster completed its 19th flight, successfully landing on the droneship Just Read the Instructions approximately eight and a half minutes after liftoff. The cost of the launch was estimated between $60 million and $70 million.

This mission is also historically significant as it is ISRO's first satellite launch using the Ka-band frequency, marking another step in India's space capabilities and expanding its communication infrastructure.