ISRO to launch INSAT-3DS on Feb 17, will improve forecasts
- The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will soon launch the INSAT-3DS from Sriharikota.
Key Features
- It will facilitate the development of new satellite products to track cyclones, monsoon systems, thunderstorms, and other natural disasters.
- It will also provide valuable observations of the atmosphere, land, and oceans.
- Funding: Ministry of Earth Sciences
- Payloads: Four payloads - an Imager, a Sounder, a Data Relay Transponder and a Satellite aided Search and Rescue Transponder.
Benefits of Multi-Spectral Imager and Sounder
- The multi-spectral imager will generate images of the Earth across six wavelength bands.
- It will aid visualisation of colour-dependent atmospheric parameters like water vapour (humidity).
- The sounder will contribute in generating vertical profiles of the atmosphere and provide information like temperature and humidity.
Third Generation Meteorological Satellite
- It is a continuation to the Third Generation Meteorological Satellite series from the geostationary orbit.
- It follows predecessors like INSAT-3D and INSAT-3DR, which have been operational since their launch in 2016.
Benefits of INSAT Data
- Since 2003, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has been using INSAT data for its operational meteorology purposes.
- Satellite-based products have significantly improved forecast accuracy, atmosphere and ocean monitoring, and overall meteorological services.
- All this led to reduced loss of life, property, and livelihood.
Prelims Takeaway
- INSAT-3DS
- Types of Orbits
- India Meteorological Department (IMD)
- Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)