Broadcasting-Satellite Service in India

This paper traces the development of the broadcasting-satellite service (BSS) in India. It describes the key system test and demonstration experiments conducted in India prior to the development of an operational first-generation domestic satellite system. The BSS component of this system, the Indian National Satellite System (INSAT-1), has a character quite different from BSS or DBS developments elsewhere. The paper provides a general description of the INSAT-1 system, with particular reference to the services and the broad operational and technical features and characteristics of its BSS component.