The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) achieved a significant milestone on February 17 with the successful launch of the INSAT-3DS meteorological satellite aboard a Geosynchronous Launch Vehicle, marking a pivotal moment in advancing India’s capabilities in meteorological observation.
The INSAT-3DS satellite, weighing 2,274 kg, is a crucial follow-on mission to enhance meteorological observations and monitoring of land and ocean surfaces for weather forecasting and disaster warning. Designed to be placed in a geostationary orbit, the satellite will augment the existing meteorological services provided by the operational INSAT-3D and INSAT-3DR satellites.
ISRO outlined the primary objectives of the INSAT-3DS mission, including monitoring Earth’s surface, conducting oceanic observations, and assessing the environment in various spectral channels of meteorological importance. Additionally, the satellite will provide vital vertical profiles of various atmospheric parameters, facilitate data collection and dissemination capabilities from data collection platforms (DCPs), and offer satellite-aided search and rescue services.
The successful launch of the INSAT-3DS satellite marks ISRO’s second mission in 2024, following the triumphant launch of the PSLV-C58/EXPOSAT mission on January 1. With this latest achievement, ISRO reinforces its commitment to advancing space exploration and strengthening India’s position in space technology.
Various departments of the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), including the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), National Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasting (NCMRWF), Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), Indian National Center for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS), and other agencies and institutes, are poised to leverage the data provided by the INSAT-3DS satellite. This data will enable improved weather forecasts and enhanced meteorological services, benefiting a wide range of sectors and stakeholders.
As ISRO continues to push the boundaries of space exploration, the successful launch of the INSAT-3DS satellite underscores India’s growing prowess in space technology and its unwavering commitment to harnessing the power of satellites for the betterment of society.
