29-hour countdown begins for GSLV-D5 launch

August 18, 2013 14:09

A 29-hour countdown began today for the crucial launch of India's GSLV-D5, powered by indigenous cryogenic upper stage engine-- which is being tested after a failed attempt over three years ago -- and carrying communication satellite GSAT-14, from Sriharikota spaceport.

The rocket carrying the 1,982-kg satellite would be launched at 4.50 pm tomorrow from the second launchpad at Indian Space Research Organisation's Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh.

India needs cryogenic engines for GSLVs for carrying heavy payloads of up to five tonnes which are crucial for future telecommunication and space exploration as its current successful PSLVs can carry only payloads weighing up to 1.5 tonnes in geosynchronous transfer orbit.

"After the launch authorisatioin board gave its clearance, the 29-hour countdown started at 11.50 am. Everything is going on as per schedule," ISRO officials said.

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