GSLV-F14/INSAT-3DS Mission | 17 Feb 2024

Source: TH

Why in News?

The Indian Space and Research Organisation (ISRO) is all set to launch its GSLV-F14/INSAT-3DS mission on 17th February 2024, with the aim of enhancing weather forecasting and disaster warning capabilities.

What are the Key Highlights of the GSLV-F14/INSAT-3DS Mission?

  • INSAT-3DS will be launched aboard the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle F14 (GSLV F14).
    • GSLV-F14 is a three-stage launch vehicle.
      • The first stage (GS1) has a solid propellant motor and four earth-storable propellant stages(EPS).
        • EPS includes a supporting structure, propellant tanks, and an engine.
      • The second stage (GS2) is also an earth-storable propellant stage
      • The third stage (GS3) is a cryogenic stage, with propellant loading of liquid oxygen (LOX) and liquid hydrogen (LH2).
      • The GSLV-F14 is the 16th flight of the GSLV, and the 10th flight with the indigenous cryo stage.
  • INSAT-3DS comprises four payloads, including an Imager, a sounder, a data relay transponder, and a satellite-aided search and rescue transponder.
    • Imager Payload:
      • INSAT-3DS carries a multi-spectral Imager capable of generating Earth images in six wavelength bands.
    • Sounder Payload:
      • It features a 19-channel Sounder payload, offering data on atmospheric vertical profiles like temperature and humidity.
    • Data Relay Transponder (DRT):
      • INSAT-3DS through DRT receives global meteorological, hydrological, and oceanographic data from automatic weather stations and data collection platforms, relaying it back to user terminals.
    • Satellite aided Search and Rescue (SA&SR) Transponder:
      • INSAT-3DS through SA&SR relays distress signals for global search and rescue operations, covering the Ultra high frequency band.
  • INSAT-3DS is designed to enhance meteorological observations, aid in weather forecasting, and improve disaster warning capabilities.
    • Fully funded by the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), it follows the lineage of Third Generation Meteorological Satellites from Geostationary Orbit.
  • The satellite will monitor land and ocean surfaces, augmenting the services provided by existing INSAT-3D and INSAT-3DR satellites.
    • India gets weather updates through INSAT-3D & 3DR weather satellites. INSAT 3DR was launched in 2016 as a follow up on INSAT-3D which was launched in 2013.
  • It will significantly contribute to India's weather agencies, facilitating more accurate weather forecasts and better disaster management strategies.
  • It will facilitate data collection and dissemination capabilities from the data collection platforms.
  • INSAT-3DS will provide satellite-aided search and rescue services, enhancing emergency response capabilities.