Anant Technologies, a Hyderabad-based company, is poised to make history in India. The company is set to become the first private entity in the country to provide broadband services through a fully indigenous satellite. The service is expected to commence in 2028. This move is considered a significant turning point for India's space and telecom sectors.
Approval Received from IN-SPACe to Commence Services
The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) has approved Anant Technologies to begin satellite communication services from 2028. The company will operate on a ‘Broadband from Space’ model to deliver high-speed internet across India. This places Anant Technologies alongside international giants like Elon Musk’s Starlink, the European company Eutelsat OneWeb, and Amazon's Project Kuiper.
Deployment of a 4-Ton Geostationary Satellite Planned
Anant Technologies plans to deploy a 4-ton geostationary satellite in space, 35,000 kilometers above the Earth. This satellite will provide uniform internet coverage across India. The company aims to deliver high-speed data service of 100 gigabits per second from this single satellite.
Advantages of GEO Satellites Compared to LEO
The primary advantage of a GEO (geostationary) satellite is that a single satellite can cover the entire country. This eliminates the need for repeated launches of multiple satellites. In contrast, companies like Starlink must deploy a large series of LEO (Low Earth Orbit) satellites in space to achieve complete coverage.
Challenges Regarding Latency
However, GEO satellites have their limitations. The issue of latency, or delay in data transfer, is often more pronounced. Anant Technologies claims it will utilize modern technology to overcome this challenge and ensure users receive high-speed internet without interruptions.
Initial Investment of ₹3,000 Crore
The company has planned an initial investment of ₹3,000 crore for this project. This amount will be increased as needed. The company's goal is to bring internet service to every corner of India, whether it be a mountainous region or a remote village.
Anant Technologies' Journey So Far
Anant Technologies has previously worked with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on several missions. The company has gained experience in areas such as satellite construction, payload systems, and ground control systems. Now, the company is using its experience and technical knowledge to directly serve the general public.
Starlink to Become Third SatCom Company
Currently, two companies in India are working towards satellite internet service. Starlink will be the third major company to offer services on a commercial level. Anant Technologies will face competition from both domestic and international companies.
Benefits for Villages and Border Areas
In a country like India, where networks have not reached remote villages and border areas, satcom technology can prove revolutionary. Anant Technologies' plan is to connect such areas to high-speed internet. This will not only improve communication but also make education, healthcare, and digital services easily accessible to villages.
Government and Private Partnership to Boost Space Sector
Institutions like IN-SPACe are giving private companies the opportunity to work in the space sector. Previously, this sector was entirely under government control. With the entry of private companies, innovation and rapid progress are expected in this sector. Anant Technologies' initiative is considered a significant step in that direction.
