The aim of this article is to study the gravitational response in an infinite, homogeneous, transversely isotropic thick plate. The upper surface of the plate is free from traction, and the surface temperature distribution is imposed on it. The lower surface of the plate is kept on a rigid base and is thermally insulated. The heat conduction equations in the presence of heat source are of hyperbolic types among them (i) without energy dissipation (GN-II model) and (ii) with energy dissipation (GN-III model). The Laplace–Fourier double-transform technique has been developed to solve the nondimensional coupled field equations. The physical quantities are obtained in the space–time domain using a numerical inversion method. Numerical calculations are performed for a thick plate made of magnesium (Mg) metal and have been depicted graphically to estimate the effect of gravity. The results for the isotropic material (Cu) and that of the transversely isotropic material (Mg) have been compared for both the models. © 2017 Taylor & Francis.