The space agency’s master control facility at Hassan in southern Karnataka took over the command of the satellite after its injection into its initial orbit to monitor the spacecraft’s health and the subsequent orbit-raising. GSAT-10 will be positioned at 83 deg. East, along with INSAT-4A and GSAT-12.

The three-axis stabilized geostationary satellite, which has an intended 15-year lifespan, was developed for India’s communications requirements and to augment current services. It carries 12 regular C-band, six extended C-band and 12 Ku-band transponders.

The cost of GSAT-10, including its launch and insurance, is 7.5 billion rupees (more than $135 million). GSAT-10, weighing 3,400 kg (7,500 lb.) at liftoff, is the heaviest spacecraft ISRO has built. The satellite will become operational by November.

The launch of GSAT-10, earlier scheduled for Sept. 22, was postponed a week due to a minor error in the Ariane 5 rocket. Last year, India successfully lofted two communications satellites, GSAT-8 and GSAT-12, which are intended to boost direct-to-home services in the country.