ISRO to launch weather satellite INSAT-3DS on February 17
ISRO to launch meteorological satellite INSAT-3DS on Feb 17 at 5:30pm
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to launch its meteorological and disaster warning satellite INSAT-3DS on February 17 at 5:30pm from Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR in Sriharikota aboard GSLV F14.
In its 16th mission, GSLV aims to place the INSAT-3DS meteorological satellite into the Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO). Following orbit-raising manoeuvres, the satellite will be positioned in a Geo-stationary Orbit, the space agency said.
ISRO said the mission is fully funded by ministry of earth sciences.
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What is INSAT-3DS, ISRO's next launch?
• INSAT-3DS is specifically designed to provide advanced meteorological observations, enhancing weather forecasting capabilities.
• The satellite is equipped with cutting-edge payloads, including a 6-channel Imager and 19-channel Sounder for meteorological observations, ensuring high-quality data collection.
• INSAT-3DS features essential communication payloads, such as the Data Relay Transponder (DRT). This instrument receives data from automatic Data Collection Platforms and Automatic Weather Stations, enhancing weather forecasting capabilities.
• The SAS&R transponder is a crucial component incorporated into the satellite. It plays a vital role in relaying distress signals and alert detections from beacon transmitters, contributing to global search and rescue services.
• With its advanced payloads and communication features, INSAT-3DS is well-equipped to monitor land and ocean surfaces, providing valuable data for disaster warning systems and contributing to early-warning capabilities.
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Next two years to see 30 launches
In the next two years, the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, SHAR plans around 30 launches, according to ‘Integrated Launch Manifesto for 2023-24 (Q4) & 2024-25’ released by IN-SPACe on Thursday.
The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) said approximately half of these launches are aimed at serving India's commercial space sector, while the rest are a mix of user-funded missions, scientific endeavours, and technology tests.
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Key highlights include planned launches by Agnikul Cosmos and Skyroot Aerospace, catering to the satellite launch needs of entities like Digantara Research & Technology, Dhruvaspace, Space Kidz India, and academic institutes such as IIT-Madras, Manipal Institute of Technology, and C.V. Raman Global University Odisha.