27-hour count down for launch of communication satellite GSAT-6A

Chennai, March 27: The 27-hour count down for the flight of Indian rocket Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) carrying communication satellite GSAT-6A on March 29 would start at 1.56 p.m on Wednesday, said the Indian space agency.

According to Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), the Mission Readiness Review (MRR) committee and the Launch Authorisation Board (LAB) on Tuesday cleared the 27-hour count down.

The 415.6 ton GSLV rocket measuring 49.1 metre tall is scheduled to blast off at 4.56 p.m. from the second launch pad from at Indian rocket port in Sriharikota, 105 km from here.

The GSAT-6A satellite will be put into orbit around 17 minutes after the rocket's lift off.

According to ISRO, two improvements-induction of high thrust Vikas engine and electromechanical actuation system - have been made in the rocket's second stage this time around.