First Indian Data Relay Satellite System (IDRSS) set for 2020 launch

To provide continuous communication support for Astronauts with the mission control during their space travel, the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) will be putting up a new satellite series or a type of satellite constellation named ‘Indian Data Relay Satellite System (IDRSS)’, it will be similar to the American Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System, European Data Relay and the Luch Satellite Data Relay Network of Russia.

ISRO plans to send two IDRSS satellites in the Geosynchronous Equatorial Orbit(GEO), first towards the end of 2020, and the second one by the end of 2021 will provide continuous connectivity with the Indian satellites in the Low-Earth Orbit(LEO). India’s first manned space mission, Ganganyaan in 2022 will be the first beneficiary of the IDRSS satellites. At present without data relay satellites, spacecraft would not be visible all the time even if ISRO create a number of ground stations or hire ground stations globally.

The IDRSS satellites would be launched on GSLV launcher and would be around 2,000 Kg as informed by Dr. Sivan (Chairman, ISRO).

Month: Current Affairs - January, 2020