ISRO GSLV-F17 Launches India's First Geosynchronous Imaging Satellite
India's space agency, ISRO, successfully launched its first imaging satellite designed for geosynchronous orbit, marking a significant advancement in Earth observation capabilities.
Source: GNews ISRO SpaceThe Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched the GSLV-F17 mission, deploying India's first imaging satellite into a geosynchronous orbit. This satellite is designed to provide continuous, real-time imaging of the Indian subcontinent. The GSLV-F17 rocket, also known as Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle, lifted off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. This mission is crucial for enhancing India's surveillance and monitoring capabilities, especially for disaster management, agriculture, forestry, and oceanography. The satellite will operate from an altitude of approximately 36,000 kilometers, allowing it to remain stationary relative to a point on Earth. ISRO aims to provide more frequent updates on weather patterns and environmental changes through this advanced imaging satellite.
This launch is important for competitive exams, especially for topics related to Science & Technology (UPSC GS Paper III, SSC General Awareness). Aspirants should understand the significance of geosynchronous orbit for Earth observation and the capabilities of ISRO. Questions often focus on India's space missions, types of satellites, and their applications in various sectors like disaster management and defence. Knowledge of ISRO's achievements and future plans is also crucial.
- ISRO launched the GSLV-F17 mission.
- The mission deployed India's first imaging satellite into geosynchronous orbit.
- The launch took place from Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota.
- The satellite will operate at an altitude of approximately 36,000 kilometers.
- It provides continuous, real-time imaging of the Indian subcontinent.
- Applications include disaster management, agriculture, and environmental monitoring.
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is the national space agency of India, headquartered in Bengaluru. Founded in 1969, it is under the Department of Space (DOS), which is directly overseen by the Prime Minister of India. ISRO is responsible for space-based applications, space exploration, and the development of related technologies.
Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) is an expendable space launch vehicle operated by ISRO. It is designed to launch satellites into geosynchronous transfer orbit (GTO) and geosynchronous orbit (GEO). GSLV is a three-stage rocket, primarily used for launching communication and meteorological satellites.
A geosynchronous orbit is an Earth-centered orbit with an orbital period that matches Earth's sidereal rotation period. A satellite in geosynchronous orbit appears to remain in a fixed position in the sky when viewed from the ground. This orbit is crucial for communication and weather satellites, typically located at an altitude of about 35,786 kilometers above the Earth's equator.
UPSC and SSC often ask about ISRO's major missions, the types of launch vehicles (PSLV, GSLV), and the applications of different satellite orbits. Focus on the 'firsts' and the strategic importance of such launches.
Remember GSLV-F17 as 'Geosynchronous Satellite for Vision' (F17 sounds like 'vision') to recall its imaging purpose and orbit type.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary purpose of India's first imaging satellite in geosynchronous orbit?
India's first imaging satellite in geosynchronous orbit, launched by ISRO's GSLV-F17, aims to provide continuous, real-time imaging of the Indian subcontinent. This capability is vital for applications such as disaster management, agricultural monitoring, forestry, and oceanography, offering frequent updates on environmental and weather conditions.
How does a geosynchronous orbit benefit Earth observation satellites?
A geosynchronous orbit allows an Earth observation satellite to appear stationary relative to a point on Earth. This enables continuous monitoring of a specific region, providing constant data and imagery. For India, this means uninterrupted surveillance of its landmass and surrounding areas, crucial for timely alerts and data collection.
Where did the GSLV-F17 launch take place?
The GSLV-F17 mission, carrying India's first imaging satellite for geosynchronous orbit, was launched from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) in Sriharikota. This spaceport, located in Andhra Pradesh, is ISRO's primary launch site for satellites and rockets.