NISAR Satellite Launch Set for March 2025

In March 2025, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will launch the NISAR satellite, a milestone in space exploration, the 2.8-tonne satellite will be deployed using the GSLV Mk-II rocket. NISAR represents a collaborative effort between India and the United States, culminating in a ₹5,000-crore project initiated in 2009.

What is NISAR?

NISAR is a Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite. Unlike traditional satellites that capture images with cameras, SAR satellites emit radio signals that bounce back to generate detailed images. This technology allows NISAR to operate effectively in darkness, adverse weather, and dense vegetation.

Development and Collaboration

NASA initially sought a partnership with Germany’s DLR for a new SAR satellite. However, due to scheduling conflicts and budget cuts, NASA turned to ISRO. Impressed by ISRO’s successful missions, including Chandrayaan-1 and RISAT-2, NASA and ISRO officially launched the NISAR mission in 2014.

Monitoring Capabilities

NISAR is engineered to monitor subtle changes in the Earth’s surface. It can detect shifts as minor as one inch, aiding in the assessment of infrastructure like dams and bridges. Furthermore, it will assist in climate change research by tracking ice sheet movements and vegetation changes.

Technical Features

The satellite features a 12-day revisit cycle, allowing it to pass over the same area every twelve days. NISAR employs a swath width of 240 km and a resolution of 10 meters, optimising coverage and image clarity.

NISAR incorporates digital beam forming (DBF) and dual-frequency radars – L-band from NASA and S-band from ISRO. The L-band penetrates vegetation and ice, while the S-band offers high-resolution images. The DBF system enables flexible scanning without moving the antenna, enhancing both coverage and resolution.

Data Collection

NISAR is expected to generate approximately 26 terabits of data daily. The advanced DBF system streamlines data management, reducing the required equipment for processing. With its sophisticated capabilities, NISAR will revolutionise Earth observation, improve disaster management, and advance climate research. It is regarded as leap forward in space technology.

GKToday Facts for Exams:

1. NISAR: NISAR stands for NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar. It is a joint satellite mission designed for advanced Earth observation. It marks international collaboration in space technology.
2. DBF: Digital Beam Forming (DBF) is a technology that enhances radar capabilities. It allows the satellite to scan in multiple directions without moving the antenna, improving data collection efficiency.
3. GSLV Mk-II: The GSLV Mk-II is a launch vehicle developed by ISRO. It is designed to deploy heavier payloads into geosynchronous transfer orbit, showcasing India’s growing capabilities in space exploration.
4. Swath: In remote sensing, a swath refers to the width of the area scanned by a satellite. NISAR’s swath width of 240 km balances coverage and image resolution effectively.

Month: Current Affairs - December, 2024

Category: Science & Technology Current Affairs