INSAT-4CR in near-geosynchronous orbit, antennas deployed

Bangalore, Sep 8 (UNI) The INSAT-4CR Communication Satellite, launched by ISRO using the indigenous GSLV-4CR on September 2, was today successfully placed in the near-geo synchronous orbit in the fifth and final orbit-raising operations conducted from Master Control Facility (MCF) at Hassan in Karnataka.

The two antennas of the 2,130-kg satellite, used to transmit and receive functions, had been successfully deployed and the satellite put in its final three axis stabilised mode, an ISRO release said here today.

In yesterday's maneouvre, the Liquid Apogee Motor (LAM) on board the satellite was fired for a duration of 196 seconds and the satellite achieved an orbital period of 23 hours and 42 minutes.

At 0714 hrs today, the satellite was put in its final three-axis stabilised mode, the East reflector (antenna) was deployed yesterday, while the West reflector was deployed today.

INSAT-4CR was presently located at 51.8 deg Eastern longitude and is expected to reach its final orbital position of 74 deg E by September 15.

After reaching its final orbital position, the satellite drift would be arrested following which in-orbit testing of the payloads would be carried out.

At 74 degree E longitude, INSAT-4CR would be co-located with INSAT-3C, KALPANA-1 and EDUSAT, the release added.

UNI