Hyderabad-based Ananth Technologies (ATL) is set to become the first Indian private firm to develop, own, and operate an indigenous geosynchronous orbit (GSO) communication satellite. The satellite, expected to be ready by 2028, will also be offered on lease to other companies, marking a major milestone in India’s private space sector.
IN-SPACe, the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center, has recognized Ananth Technologies Ltd (ATL) as the first private company to benefit from its ‘Announcement of Opportunity’ initiative. This initiative allows non-government entities to access Indian orbital resources for space missions. ATL has been granted permission to launch a geosynchronous orbit (GSO) communication satellite in the Ka-band, under India’s International Telecommunication Union (ITU) filing. This approval provides ATL with an exclusive orbital position at 89E in the eastern hemisphere, where it can position its satellite to offer communication services. The satellite will play a key role in expanding India’s private sector capabilities in satellite communication.
Ananth Technologies Ltd (ATL) plans to build a Ka-band GSO satellite weighing up to 3,000 kg (3 tonnes), equipped with multiple transponders to support a variety of communication services. The company aims to complete the satellite’s development within the next 18 months and launch it within a window of two to six months, depending on the availability of a suitable launch vehicle. This move aligns with India’s broader goals to foster private sector participation in space exploration and technology. By enabling such initiatives, India seeks to strengthen its position as a self-reliant (Atmanirbhar) player in satellite communication, reducing reliance on foreign resources and enhancing domestic capabilities in space-based services.
ISRO & IIT Madras Unveil Indigenous Space Microprocessor IRIS-LV for Advanced Space Missions
Ananth Technologies Ltd (ATL) Future
Over the past 32 years, Ananth Technologies Ltd (ATL) has played a pivotal role in India’s space journey, contributing to over 100 satellites and 80 launch vehicles, primarily for ISRO. Founded in 1992 by Dr. Subba Rao, a former ISRO scientist, ATL has since expanded its reach beyond India, delivering satellite subsystems to American companies and now collaborating with Australian partners under the India-Australia ‘Maitri’ programme.
The company is also actively involved in developing critical systems for ISRO’s human spaceflight programme, showcasing its capabilities in high-end aerospace engineering. With the infrastructure to produce up to 20 small satellites monthly and eight large satellites simultaneously over 12 to 18 months, ATL is well-equipped to meet both domestic and global demands. Committed to being a reliable and equal partner to global Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), ATL brings its deep expertise, local facilities, and extensive experience to the table. The company continues to support India’s evolving aerospace ecosystem with indigenous technological solutions, serving not only ISRO but also public sector giants like BHEL and HAL. Remarkably, Ananth Technologies Ltd (ATL) has been a part of every single Indian space programme, underlining its strategic importance and consistent contribution to the nation’s space capabilities.
India Partners with HawkEye 360 for Indo-Pacific Surveillance