TAG: GS 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
THE CONTEXT: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has marked a significant milestone in space exploration with the announcement of the INSAT-3DS satellite’s journey to the launch port at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.
EXPLANATION:
- Designed as an exclusive meteorological satellite, INSAT-3DS is set to enhance and ensure the continuity of services provided by its predecessors, INSAT-3D and 3DR.
INSAT-3DS:
- INSAT-3DS, is an exclusive meteorological satellite realized by ISRO.
- Its primary objective is to provide continuity of services to the existing in-orbit INSAT-3D and 3DR satellites and significantly enhancing the capabilities of INSAT system is flagged off to SDSC-SHAR launch port on January 25, 2024 for the launch onboard GSLV F14.
- The Satellite had successfully completed Satellite Assembly, Integration & Testing activities at U R Rao Satellite Centre, Bengaluru.
- Pre-Shipment Review (PSR) was held with the participation of members from user community on January 25, 2024.
- The satellite is a user funded project with Ministry of Earth Science (MoES), configured around ISRO’s well proven I-2k bus platform with a Lift-Off Mass of 2275 kg. Indian Industries have significantly contributed in the making of the Satellite.
DESIGN AND ADVANCED PAYLOADS:
- The satellite is designed for enhanced meteorological observations and monitoring of land and ocean surfaces for weather forecasting and disaster warning, with state-of-the-art payloads viz., 6 channel Imager & 19 channel Sounder meteorology payloads, communication payloads viz., The Data Relay Transponder (DRT) and Satellite aided Search and Rescue (SAS&R) transponder.
Data Relay Transponder (DRT):
- The DRT instrument plays a pivotal role in receiving meteorological, hydrological, and oceanographic data from automatic Data Collection Platforms and Automatic Weather Stations.
- This data augmentation significantly contributes to advancing weather forecasting capabilities.
Satellite-aided Search and Rescue (SAS&R) Transponder:
- The SAS&R transponder is strategically incorporated to relay distress signals and alert detections from beacon transmitters.
- With global receive coverage, this feature enhances search and rescue services, emphasizing the satellite’s role in addressing emergency situations.
Conclusion:
- As INSAT-3DS heads to the launch port, India’s capabilities in meteorological observation and disaster management are set to reach new heights.
- The satellite not only builds upon the successes of its predecessors but also signifies India’s commitment to advancing space technology for the betterment of weather forecasting, disaster warning, and global search and rescue efforts.
- The upcoming launch is a testament to ISRO’s continued innovation and its pivotal role in shaping India’s presence in the field of space exploration.