INSAT-3DS Satellite Flagged Off

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has flagged off its advanced meteorological satellite INSAT-3DS to the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) in Sriharikota for an upcoming launch. The 2275 kg satellite has finished assembly, integration and testing at ISRO’s UR Rao Satellite Centre in Bengaluru. It is now set for a scheduled mid-February liftoff on board GSLV F14.

Continuity of Meteorological Services

INSAT-3DS is a follow-on satellite designed to provide continuity to the services of operational INSAT-3D and 3DR spacecraft. Its primary objective is to significantly enhance the capabilities of ISRO’s INSAT system towards weather monitoring and disaster forewarning. The user-funded project has been jointly realized by ISRO and the Ministry of Earth Sciences.

Advanced Instruments for Observation

The spacecraft hosts a sophisticated suite of six optical and nineteen infrared channels for observing land, oceans and atmosphere. Key payloads include an Imager, Sounder and two communication packages – Data Relay Transponder (DRT) and Search & Rescue transponder. The DRT receives meteorological and oceanographic data from ground sensors to augment weather prediction. The SAR package relays distress alert signals for search/rescue operations globally.

Enhanced Monitoring Capabilities

The optical and infrared sensors onboard INSAT-3DS will enable scanning of earth in multiple bands of the spectrum. This enhanced monitoring across visible, thermal and water vapor channels will give detailed updates on cloud parameters, snow cover, sea surface temperatures and soil moisture. The hyper-spectral datasets will significantly improve weather analysis, typhoon forecasts and issuing timely warnings.

Indigenous Satellite Production

INSAT-3DS has been fully designed and fabricated in India leveraging ISRO’s expertise in end-to-end satellite building. Indian industries have played a major role in the spacecraft’s production across various work packages. An integrated satellite of this class showcases the country’s growing capabilities in space technology for self-reliance.

Providing Launch Services

The reliable Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mk-II (GSLV-F14) has been chosen by ISRO for orbiting INSAT-3DS. GSLV features an indigenous cryogenic third stage and has had a string of successful flights since 2017. Launching a 2+ ton satellite will validate enhancements made to the vehicle for meeting future operational demands.

Continuity of Meteorological Applications

As an advanced weather satellite with cutting-edge instruments, INSAT-3DS will ensure continuity of critical monitoring and forecasting applications provided by earlier INSAT missions. Its atmospheric soundings and high-quality imagery will improve prediction of cyclones, floods, droughts – vital for disaster management agencies.

Month: Current Affairs - January, 2024

Category: Science & Technology Current Affairs