INSAT-2E is an Indian geostationary communications and weather satellite which is operated by the Indian National Satellite System.[2] It is positioned in geostationary orbit at a longitude of 83° East, from where it is used to provide communications services to Asia and Australia. It also carries two meteorological instruments; the Very High Resolution Radiometer, and a CCD camera capable of returning images with a resolution of one kilometre.[3]
The communications payload aboard INSAT-2E consists of seventeen G/H band (IEEE C band) transponders.[2] At launch the satellite had a mass of 2,550 kilograms (5,620 lb), with an expected operational lifespan of 12 years.[4] Some of its transponders are leased to Intelsat, who operate them under the designation Intelsat APR-2.
INSAT-2E was launched by Arianespace, using an Ariane 42P carrier rocket flying from ELA-2 at the Guiana Space Centre. The launch occurred at 22:03 UTC on 2 April 1999.[5] Following launch, it raised itself into geostationary orbit using liquid-fuelled apogee motor. Its final insertion burn occurred at 07:38 UTC on 8 April.[6] Following insertion, it was positioned at a longitude of 83° East.
INSAT-2E is using ultra-light Magnesium-lithium alloys developed by DMRL.The Magnesium-lithium sheets were supplied to ISAC, Bangalore center.[7]