ISRO’s Successful Launch of INSAT-3DS: A Leap Forward in Weather Observation Technology
India’s space agency, ISRO, achieved another milestone on Saturday with the successful launch of its next-generation weather observation satellite, INSAT-3DS. The satellite was launched aboard a GSLV rocket, marking a significant advancement in India’s space technology.
The flawless mission not only demonstrated ISRO’s prowess but also marked a turning point for the GSLV rocket technology, which has faced challenges in the past. ISRO Chairman S Somanath expressed confidence in the success, stating that it gives the agency “greater confidence” as they prepare for the upcoming NISAR mission, a collaboration with NASA.
INSAT-3DS, weighing 2274 kg, is a follow-on mission aimed at providing enhanced meteorological observations, monitoring land and ocean surfaces, weather forecasting, disaster warning, and satellite-aided Search and Rescue Services (SAR). The satellite, funded by the Ministry of Earth Sciences, will ensure continuity of services provided by its predecessors, INSAT-3D and INSAT-3DR.
The mission’s objectives include studying cloud properties, fog, rainfall, snow cover, fire, smoke, land, and ocean surfaces, among others. With improved radiometric performances, the satellite’s payloads will provide valuable data for weather and climate-related studies.
Mission Director Tomy Joseph likened the GSLV to a “naughty boy” that has now matured into an obedient and disciplined vehicle, highlighting its reliability for future missions. Somanath emphasized ISRO’s confidence in the GSLV, particularly as they prepare for the NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) satellite mission.
INSAT-3DS is equipped with enhanced payloads, and its solar panels have been deployed as it embarks on its journey to its designated orbit. Over the next few days, ISRO will conduct orbit-raising maneuvers and in-orbit testing to commission the spacecraft fully.
The mission’s success is expected to benefit various departments and institutes under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, including the India Meteorological Department and the National Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasting. The INSAT-3DS mission is anticipated to have a lifespan of around 10 years, contributing significantly to India’s meteorological and earth observation capabilities.
