#Satellite

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SPADEX Success: India Only the Fourth Nation to Achieve This Feat!

India has etched its name among the global space elite with a great achievement—successfully docking two spacecraft in orbit. On Thursday, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) announced the giant success of the Space Docking Experiment (SPADEX), a feat accomplished by only three other countries: Russia, China, and the United States.The SPADEX mission involved two satellites, aptly named Chaser and Target, deployed in a low-Earth orbit at an altitude of 470 kilometers. Initially separated by 20 kilometers, the satellites maneuvered with precision to close the gap to just three meters. After overcoming technical anomalies and postponements, ISRO executed the docking with accuracy.“Manoeuvre from 15m to 3m hold point completed. Docking initiated with precision, leading to successful spacecraft capture. Retraction completed smoothly, followed by rigidisation for stability. Docking successfully completed,” ISRO stated in its update.This success represents a crucial milestone for India’s space ambitions. It paves the way for the Chandrayaan-4 mission, designed to bring lunar samples back to Earth, and supports the assembly of the Bharatiya Antariksha Station, India’s ambitious space station project.Pioneering Technology and Future MissionsThe SPADEX satellites, launched on December 30 via the PSLV, are now functioning as a single spacecraft. Over the coming weeks, ISRO will demonstrate advanced capabilities such as electric power transfer between the docked spacecraft and composite spacecraft control. These efforts will culminate in the satellites undocking and continuing their independent missions.This technology is vital for several applications in upcoming space initiatives. Chandrayaan-4, for example, will involve a re-entry module engineered to withstand the intense heat of atmospheric re-entry. The lunar samples collected will be transferred from the Moon to Earth via a docking maneuver in orbit. Similarly, docking will play a pivotal role in assembling the Bharatiya Antariksha Station, enabling in-orbit refueling and construction of heavy infrastructure in microgravity.Beyond docking, the SPADEX satellites are hosting 24 payloads from public and private institutions to conduct a variety of experiments in space over the next two years. Among the highlights is the successful cultivation of cowpea seeds in microgravity—a pioneering first for India’s space program. Celebrations and AccoladesThe success of the SPADEX mission has sparked celebrations at ISRO headquarters. New ISRO Chairman Dr. V. Narayanan lauded the team of scientists for their dedication and ingenuity. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also congratulated the agency, stating on X (formerly Twitter), “Congratulations to our scientists at @isro and the entire space fraternity for the successful demonstration of space docking of satellites. It is a significant stepping stone for India’s ambitious space missions in the years to come.”With Chandrayaan-4, the Bharatiya Antariksha Station, and even missions to Venus on the horizon, India is poised to revolutionize space exploration. The successful space docking is not merely an isolated milestone; it is the foundation for a future where India’s space program competes with the best in the world, fostering new opportunities and inspiring generations to dream big.

16 Jan 2025

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India's First Spy Satellite Developed by Local Private Player Set for SpaceX Liftoff

India is preparing for a significant milestone in its space exploration journey as the country's first military-grade spy satellite, developed by a domestic private player, is set to be launched into orbit by SpaceX. This groundbreaking achievement holds the potential to transform India's defense capabilities and reduce its dependency on foreign vendors for critical intelligence gathering. Domestic Expertise and Partnership: The spy satellite has been manufactured by Tata Advanced Systems (TASL), a leading Indian private player in the defense sector. This development showcases India's growing technological prowess and commitment to self-reliance in strategic areas. The satellite has been built in collaboration with Satellogic, a Latin American company, bringing together expertise from different regions. Enhanced Surveillance and Imaging Capabilities: The satellite is equipped with advanced imaging technology, capable of providing imagery with a remarkable spatial resolution of 0.5 meters. This level of precision will enable the armed forces to closely monitor critical infrastructure and gather valuable intelligence on military targets. The satellite's ground control center, located in Bengaluru, will be responsible for directing its path and processing the acquired imagery. Securing National Interests: One of the significant advantages of this domestically developed spy satellite is maintaining control within the country. Unlike previous arrangements with foreign vendors, where sensitive coordinates and monitoring details had to be shared, this satellite allows India to retain the secrecy of its strategic information. This aspect strengthens national security and ensures that critical data remains in safe hands. Reducing Dependence on Foreign Entities: India has previously relied on foreign companies to meet its urgent intelligence needs, especially during border tensions and security challenges. However, with the successful launch of this spy satellite, the country will significantly reduce its dependence on foreign entities for vital intelligence gathering. This achievement marks a major step towards self-reliance and strengthens India's sovereignty in the defense sector. Export Potential and Future Prospects: Apart from catering to India's defense requirements, the spy satellite also holds export potential. The satellite imagery, with its remarkable precision, can be shared with friendly nations, further bolstering diplomatic ties and strategic partnerships. TASL has already received inquiries from potential buyers, indicating the international demand for India's advanced satellite technology. This success paves the way for future development and customization of satellites according to the specific requirements of the armed forces. By reducing dependence on foreign vendors and maintaining control over critical information, India is poised to strengthen its national security and establish itself as a key player in the global space industry. The successful liftoff of the spy satellite will mark a historic moment for India's space program and pave the way for future advancements in satellite technology.

20 Feb 2024

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ISRO Successfully Launches INSAT-3DS, India's Advanced Weather Satellite from Sriharikota

The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) has achieved another significant milestone with the successful launch of INSAT-3DS, India's advanced weather satellite. The satellite was launched from the Sriharikota spaceport and is expected to enhance the country's meteorological observations and weather forecasting capabilities. Launching INSAT-3DS: ISRO's INSAT-3DS was launched onboard a Geosynchronous Launch Vehicle (GSLV) rocket from Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. This successful launch marks the 16th mission of the GSLV rocket. The INSAT-3DS satellite is designed to provide crucial meteorological data and maintain the continuity of services offered by the current operational INSAT-3D and INSAT-3DR satellites. Enhancing Meteorological Observations: INSAT-3DS is equipped with a 6-channel Imager and a 19-channel Sounder, dedicated to advanced meteorological observations. These payloads will enable the satellite to monitor Earth's surface, observe oceans, and analyze the environment through various essential meteorological perspectives. The satellite aims to provide accurate information on diverse atmospheric conditions through vertical profiles, thereby improving weather forecasting accuracy. Data Collection and Dissemination: One of the key objectives of INSAT-3DS is to manage data collection and dissemination from Data Collection Platforms (DCPs). The satellite's Data Relay Transponder (DRT) receives data from automatic Data Collection Platforms and Automatic Weather Stations, enhancing the capabilities of weather forecasting systems. This improved data collection will contribute to more accurate predictions and timely disaster warnings. Satellite Aided Search and Rescue Services: In addition to meteorological observations, INSAT-3DS will also provide Satellite Aided Search and Rescue (SAS&R) services. The SAS&R transponder on the satellite will play a vital role in relaying distress signals and alert detections from beacon transmitters, contributing to global search and rescue operations. Future Missions: ISRO chairman, S Somanath, confirmed that the organization's joint mission with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) named NISAR is on schedule. NISAR is an Earth-observing mission that utilizes advanced radar technology to observe a broad spectrum of changes on the planet's surface. This collaborative mission between ISRO and NASA aims to enhance global observational capabilities and gather valuable data for research and analysis. Implications for Weather Forecasting: The successful launch of INSAT-3DS holds significant implications for India's weather forecasting capabilities. With advanced meteorological observations and improved data collection and dissemination, the satellite is expected to enhance the accuracy and timeliness of weather forecasts. This will result in better preparedness for severe weather events, early warning systems for disasters, and improved resource planning in various sectors, including agriculture, aviation, and infrastructure development. As ISRO continues to push the boundaries of technological advancements, India's space program is poised for further growth and contributions to scientific research and national development.

19 Feb 2024

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Chandrayaan-3 Followed by PSLV-C56: India's Space Odyssey Continues!

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) achieved yet another milestone with the successful launch of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) on its 56th mission to space, carrying seven foreign satellites alongside its primary payload. The launch took place from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota during the early hours of a Sunday, marking the second significant launch by the Indian space agency in just two weeks, following the Chandrayaan-3 mission to the Moon launched on July 14. The star of the show was the DS-SAR satellite, developed in collaboration with Singapore's Defence Science and Technology Agency and ST Engineering. After about 23 minutes post-lift-off, the PSLV rocket separated from its satellites and placed them into their intended orbits approximately 535 km above the Earth's surface. The DS-SAR satellite is equipped with Synthetic-aperture radar (SAR) technology, enabling it to create high-resolution two-dimensional images and three-dimensional reconstructions of objects on the Earth's surface. It will play a pivotal role in fulfilling the satellite imagery requirements of various Singaporean government agencies and ST Engineering's commercial customers. The DS-SAR wasn't alone on this interstellar journey. Accompanying it were six co-passenger customer satellites, each with its unique purpose. The successful deployment of all seven satellites into their designated orbits marks the 431st foreign satellite launch from India by ISRO and the fourth dedicated PSLV launch for the Singaporean government. As ISRO continues to explore new frontiers and expand its international collaborations, India's space odyssey is reaching greater heights. With each successful mission, the nation solidifies its position as a key player in the global space race. The future holds even more exciting prospects as India sets its sights on new celestial horizons.

31 Jul 2023

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Another Triumph for ISRO as India Launches Cutting-Edge Navigation Satellite

In a remarkable feat, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) achieved yet another milestone on Monday as it successfully launched a second-generation navigation satellite using a GSLV rocket equipped with a cryogenic upper stage. The 51.7-meter-tall Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle, in its 15th flight, took off precisely at 10.42 am on Monday from the second launch pad at the spaceport located approximately 130 km from Chennai, following a meticulous 27.5-hour countdown. This significant launch introduces the second generation of navigation satellites that will bolster India's regional navigation system, providing precise and real-time navigation services. The satellite series, known as NVS-01, ensures the continuity of NavIC (Navigation with Indian Constellation) services— an Indian satellite navigation system akin to GPS, offering accurate positioning and timing information. The NavIC signals, designed to deliver a user's position with accuracy surpassing 20 meters and timing accuracy better than 50 nanoseconds, have already garnered praise for their reliability and effectiveness. The successful placement of NVS-01 into a precise orbit by GSLV further reinforces ISRO's excellence in satellite deployment. ISRO Chairman S Somanath expressed his elation at the flawless execution of the mission and commended the entire team for their hard work. He highlighted the significance of NVS-01 as a second-generation satellite with enhanced capabilities, including increased signal security and the introduction of a civilian frequency band. Notably, the satellite also features an indigenous rubidium atomic clock, a technology possessed by only a handful of countries. ISRO's NavIC system, previously known as the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS), caters to the positioning, navigation, and timing needs of India, particularly in the fields of civil aviation and defense. With the launch of NVS-01, ISRO has taken a significant stride forward in strengthening the country's space capabilities and achieving self-reliance in satellite navigation technology.

29 May 2023

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ISRO to Launch Singaporean Satellite TeLEOS-02 into Orbit

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is gearing up for its third launch of the year, with the launch scheduled for April 22 at 2:19 pm from Sriharikota, India's only spaceport. This time, ISRO will carry the Singaporean Earth Observation satellite TeLEOS-02 on board the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle, one of ISRO's most reliable vehicles. This launch comes after two successful launches this year, one using the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) in February and another using the heaviest LVM3 in March. The satellite on board, TeLEOS-02, is a 750 kg earth observation satellite that has synthetic aperture radar, which can provide data in 1-meter resolution. The satellite arrived in India in February, and its launch is part of the government's plan to increase India's share in the commercial market from the current 2%. ISRO Chairman S Somanath had earlier announced that a new facility would be used for the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) C55 mission, and the launch vehicle was assembled in this new integration facility at the spaceport. This will be the 57th launch of PSLV, and it has proven to be one of ISRO's most reliable vehicles. The TeLEOS-02 launch is a significant milestone for ISRO, as it aims to increase India's share in the commercial space market. This launch reinforces ISRO's commercial arm, the NewSpace India Limited's mission, to make India a leader in the commercial space industry. ISRO has successfully launched numerous satellites in the past, including India's big-ticket missions like Chandrayaan-1, Mangalyaan, and AstroSat. ISRO's consistent success in launching satellites and its increasing presence in the commercial space industry is commendable. It highlights the significant progress that India has made in the space industry and reinforces the country's position as one of the global leaders in space technology.

20 Apr 2023

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India Takes Quantum Leap as Government Approves National Quantum Mission

India has taken a significant leap forward in the world of quantum technologies as the Union Cabinet approved the National Quantum Mission (NQM). The mission, worth Rs. 6,003.65 crores, is set to run from 2023 to 2031 and aims to strengthen India's research and development in the quantum arena while indigenously building quantum-based computers. Quantum computing works by using the nature of subatomic particles to perform calculations, with qubits instead of binary bits. By programming the initial conditions of the qubit, quantum computing can solve problems much faster than classical computing. The NQM will focus on developing quantum computers with physical qubit capacities ranging between 50 – 1000 qubits over the next eight years. Under NQM, there will be four broad themes — Quantum Computing, Quantum Communication, Quantum Sensing and Metrology, and Quantum Material and Devices. Thematic hubs for each will be established at research institutes and R&D centers who are already working in this field of research. Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister (Independent charge), Department of Science and Technology (DST), said, “The National Quantum Mission will help India take a quantum leap in this area of research. It will have wide-scale applications ranging from healthcare and diagnostics, defence, energy, and data security.” The mission will also entail the development of satellite-based secure communications between a ground station and a receiver located within 3,000kms during the first three years. For satellite-based communication within Indian cities, NQM will lay communication lines using Quantum Key Distribution over 2,000kms. For long-distance quantum communication, especially with other countries, tests will be conducted in the coming years. India has now joined the ranks of other countries, such as the US, Canada, France, Finland, China, and Austria, who are already working on R&D in quantum technologies. With the NQM, India aims to position itself as a leader in this exciting and rapidly developing field.

20 Apr 2023

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ISRO’s Sixth Consecutive Successful Mission Puts India at the Forefront of Space Tech

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has once again achieved a momentous feat by successfully launching its heaviest payload rocket, LVM3, carrying 36 OneWeb satellites onboard. The rocket lifted off from the second launch pad at Satish Dhawan Space Centre SDSC-SHAR, Sriharikota, on March 26th, 2023, and is the sixth consecutive successful flight of the LVM3. This is the second mission for OneWeb Group Company, under a commercial agreement with NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), to launch 72 satellites into Low-Earth Orbits. The first set of 36 satellites was launched on October 23, 2022. The satellites were successfully deployed in nine phases over a period of 1 hour and 14 minutes, with the signal acquisition on all 36 satellites confirmed. OneWeb is a space-based global communication network that offers connectivity for governments, businesses, and communities. With the support of major investor Bharti Enterprises, OneWeb has launched its 18th mission, the third this year, bringing its total constellation to 618 Low Earth Orbit (LEO)satellites. This achievement is significant as it makes OneWeb the first LEO operator to have enough satellites in orbit to offer global service. The successful launch of LVM3-M3/OneWeb India-2 Mission has been hailed as a significant step towards closing the digital divide, bringing fast and reliable connectivity to those who lack it. ISRO Chairman S. Somanath congratulated NSIL, ISRO, and OneWeb for the successful launch, with Union Minister Jitendra Singh lauding ISRO for yet another feather in their much-decorated hat. ISRO's successful mission reinforces India's position as a global leader in space technology, demonstrating its capabilities in advancing scientific research and enhancing communication infrastructure. With this historic launch, ISRO has set the bar high for future space missions, paving the way for more exciting developments in the field.

27 Mar 2023

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India's First Hybrid Sounding Rocket Launched by Students is a Milestone Achievement

India has made a giant leap towards space technology with the successful launch of its first hybrid-sounding rocket by private players. The rocket was launched from Pattipulam village in the Chengalpattu district of Tamil Nadu. But what makes this launch even more special is that it was designed and constructed by a team of 3,500 students from government schools across the country. The student team, which included 200 students from the fishermen community in Tamil Nadu and Pondicherry, 100 students from tribal communities across India, and 60 from Tamil Nadu, built a student satellite launch vehicle (rocket) and 150 PICO satellite research experiment cubes that contained different payloads. The project was completed by Martin Foundation in association with Dr APJ Abdul Kalam International Foundation and Space Zone India, and was called Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Satellite Launch Vehicle Mission 2023. The rocket mission was sponsored by Mumbai and Nagpur municipal corporations, who contributed to the project by sponsoring 20 and 10 students respectively. The students involved in the project not only learnt about satellite technology but also gained knowledge in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). The launch marks a significant achievement in the Indian space technology industry and opens up opportunities for more such programmes to benefit students in the future. The success of this project shows that India’s young minds have the potential to contribute significantly to space research and development. Martin Foundation has expressed their willingness to continue such programmes in the future, giving more students the opportunity to learn and participate in space sciences. The students’ hard work and dedication, guided by professionals, has paid off and deserves applause for their tremendous efforts.

5 Mar 2023

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JANUS-1 Takes India's Satellite Industry to New Heights with Cloud-Based Design

India’s Ananth Technologies Ltd. (ATL) made history by designing and building the world's first satellite fully based on an end-to-end cloud platform. JANUS-1, which was launched into orbit on ISRO's mini rocket SSLV-D2, was fully assembled, integrated, and tested by ATL in Bengaluru. The company was able to design and build JANUS-1 in just 10 months, saving over 75% in cost compared to comparable satellite missions. JANUS-1 also represents the future of satellite technology. It can be accessed from the cloud of Antaris company, enabling cost and time savings. According to a report in the Times of India, the complete assembly, integration, and test of the satellite were conducted in Bengaluru by ATL. The company also contributed various avionics subsystems to ISRO's earth observation satellite EOS-7. Subba Rao Pavuluri, the company's founder and CMD, said that ATL's new satellite center in Bengaluru is the first private facility of its kind in India. It has the capacity to produce eight satellites weighing more than 2 tonnes in 18 months as well as over 25–30 small satellites, similar to what UK-based OneWeb is doing in the field of broadband satellites. JANUS-1 is a testament to India's rapidly growing satellite technology industry and the innovative capabilities of Indian companies. The cost and time savings achieved by ATL's end-to-end cloud platform approach is a major breakthrough in the satellite industry, and JANUS-1 is just the beginning of what seems to be a new era of satellites designed and built in India.

13 Feb 2023

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Another Feather in the Cap for ISRO As Oceansat-3 Is Successfully Launched

On Saturday, the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) successfully launched Oceansat-3, an Earth observation satellite, together with eight other customer satellites into two separate orbits. India's workhorse PSLV lifted off from Satish Dhawan Space Centre in its 56th flight at 11.56 am on Saturday to launch Oceansat-3, an Earth observation satellite. Despite cloudy conditions obstructing spectators' views, the launch was almost flawless. This is one of ISRO's longest missions. This mission is unique in that the scientists will use several maneuvers to position the satellites in various orbits at various altitudes. "The purpose of the Oceansat-3 was to research the biological parameters of the ocean," stated Thenmozhi Selvi K, Project Director for the EOS-06 Satellite. "It will be an operational class spacecraft with complete redundancy and has five years of mission life." The Oceansat-3 comprises four important payloads, which are - Ocean Color Monitor (OCM-3), Sea Surface Temperature Monitor (SSTM), Ku-Band Scatterometer (SCAT-3), and ARGOS. Oceansat-3, the newest satellite in the series, is designed to observe ocean surface temperature, wind vectors, and ocean color data for use in oceanography, climatology, and meteorological applications. According to the ISRO, the satellite also offers value-added products including identifying possible fishing zones using chlorophyll, SST, wind speed, and other data as well as land-based applications.

28 Nov 2022

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2nd Satellite Station To Come Up In Ajmer

Ajmer will soon get a second Satellite Station. Currently, Madar Satellite Station is operational and more than 150 trains run through Ajmer Railway Station. Daurai Satellite Station which is said to be the second such station will become operational soon. The whole idea behind having a satellite station is to reduce the traffic on the main platform, said a railway official.

8 Feb 2018

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Proud moment for India for launching world’s lightest satellite

It is a proud moment for India as it broke the global space record on Thursday to launch a world’s lightest satellite. This satellite which weighs only 64 grams called Kalamsat is a discovery by 18-year-old Tamil Nadu student Rifath Sharook. His team members helped him to design this satellite. This satellite was flown by a Nasa sounding rocket. The lift-off was from the space agency’s Wallop Island facility around 3 pm (IST). The name Kalamsat is given after Abdul Kalam as Kalam had his training done in sounding rocket programme at Wallops in 60s. This satellite is the only Indian payload in the mission. As per a report published in The Times of India, mission director Srimathy Kesan said that the total flight time of the rocket was 240 minutes and the satellite, assembled at her T.Nagar residence in Chennai, separated from the rocket 125 minutes after lift-off. "Kalamsat fell into the sea. It will be recovered and Nasa will be sending it back to us for decoding the data,'' she said while pointing out in an emotion-choked voice that the flight was "out of the world and it was a divine intervention." She further added, "I am calling it divine intervention because the previous Nasa mission from Wallops got postponed because of weather and we were able to launch successfully today." This unique satellite can fit one’s palm and it measures 3.8cm cube and its structure is fully 3-D printed with reinforced carbon fibre polymer. "It is the only cube to be converted into a satellite in this mission," Kesan added.

23 Jun 2017

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ISRO to launch Cartosat series by month end

ISRO is all set to make India proud again when, after the historic lift-off of India's heaviest rocket GSLV-Mk III+, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will launch a Cartosat-series satellite, also called the 'eye in the sky' because of its surveillance capabilities, into the 505-km polar sun-synchronous orbit in the last week of June. The PSLV-C38 rocket will launch the satellite which is fourth of the Cartosat series. The Cartosat-series satellite has advanced remote sensing capabilities that enable it to provide scene-specific spot imagery. The state-of-the-art panchromatic (PAN) camera that takes black and white pictures of the earth in the visible region of the electromagnetic spectrum. The 550 kg satellite, which can be steered up to 45 degrees along as well as across the track, traverses the entire globe in 1867 orbits on a 126-day cycle. The Cartosat-2C series satellite gives a boost to India's military surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities by providing high-resolution images of 0.65 metres, an improvement over the 0.8m resolution of the earlier missions. Cartosat-2C satellite was a major help to the military in 2016 when the army relied on satellite images to hit terror launch pads across LoC during the surgical strike. The satellite's panchromatic camera covers 50% of the payload area and is made at Ahmedabad-based Space Applications Centre. It is regarded as the best remote sensing satellite as it can not only click pictures of areas of interest but also record videos of sensitive targets from space, compress it and relay it back to earth.The satellite can produce black and white images of up to 100 cm in resolution as compared to 80 cm rendered by Ikonos, operated by America's DigitalGlobe.

9 Jun 2017

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PM's gift 'South Asia satellite' to be launched on Friday

Soon after taking the reins of the country in May 2014, PM Narendra Modi had asked India's space scientists to develop a Saarc satellite. Now after three years, the satellite is ready and will be launched on Friday, May 5. It is renamed 'South Asia Satellite' after Pakistan opted out of the project citing security reasons. The communications satellite (Gsat-9) which is developed by ISRO at a cost of Rs 450 crore will be India's gift to its neighbours. The satellite which will encompass South Asia, will enable a full range of applications and services in the areas of telecommunications and broadcasting. In his radio address 'Mann Ki Baat' on Sunday, Modi said that his slogan 'sabka saath sabka vikas' also extended to India's neighbours. He said the satellite would address the region's economic and development priorities. Naming the countries Nepal, Bhutan, Maldives, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka who have agreed to be part of this mission, Modi emphasized the need for cooperation and development among our neighbours. Afghanistan is still to ink the deal as some technical problems have to be fixed. The PM said that this satellite will prove to be a boon in the progress of the entire region as it gives services in natural resources mapping, tele-medicine, the field of education, deeper IT connectivity and will also foster people-to-people contact

4 May 2017

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Global News

A New Era in Space: World's First 'Self-Driving' Satellites Successfully Launched

The launch of the world’s first self-driving satellites signals a giant shift in space technology. Developed by Shanghai Academy of Spaceflight Technology (SAST), these autonomous satellites were successfully launched by China. They are designed to autonomously maintain and adjust their flight paths without requiring ground intervention.This breakthrough is set to transform surveying, mapping, and data collection, reducing operational complexities while expanding the possibilities of satellite applications in various industries.What Makes These Satellites Unique?The two groundbreaking satellites, named Siwei Gaojing-2 03 and Gaojing-2 04, were launched aboard a Long March-2C carrier rocket on November 25.Equipped with advanced synthetic aperture radar (SAR) technology and high-precision radar payloads, they bring unprecedented capabilities to space exploration:Unmatched Precision: These satellites can autonomously return to orbit with a 100-meter accuracy.Coordinated Flight Maneuvers: They are capable of performing formation fly-arounds with sub-meter precision.By significantly reducing the need for ground-based operations, these features simplify satellite control, enhance safety, and improve operational efficiency.Transformational Capabilities for Diverse ApplicationsOnce operational, the satellites will deliver high-resolution, round-the-clock radar imagery under all weather conditions. This versatility makes them indispensable across several critical domains:Resource Management: Supporting efforts in natural resource monitoring and land management.Urban Safety: Offering real-time insights for infrastructure development and safety monitoring.Emergency and Disaster Response: Providing crucial data during floods, earthquakes, and other calamities.Agriculture and Environment: Assisting in crop yield monitoring and ecological conservation.Maritime Surveillance: Enhancing ocean activity tracking and security.Beyond these practical applications, the satellites will play a pivotal role in updating geographical databases and advancing environmental management practices.Revolutionary SAR TechnologyThe satellites utilize synthetic aperture radar (SAR), which gives them a distinct edge over traditional optical satellites. While optical satellites rely on visible and infrared light, SAR technology uses microwave signals, offering several key advantages:All-Weather Imaging: SAR satellites can penetrate clouds, fog, and darkness, capturing high-resolution images under any conditions.Disaster Monitoring: They excel in assessing the impacts of natural disasters, including floods and deforestation.Military Applications: Providing advanced surveillance capabilities crucial for national security.These features make SAR-equipped satellites essential tools for diverse applications in both civilian and defense sectors.A Vision for a Satellite ConstellationThe Siwei Gaojing-2 satellites are part of a larger project to create a comprehensive commercial remote sensing satellite constellation. This ambitious network aims to eventually comprise at least 28 satellites, delivering high-resolution data to support industries such as marine surveillance and environmental monitoring.The constellation is set to be fully operational by next year, offering unparalleled insights and capabilities to industries worldwide.The launch of these self-driving satellites marks a significant milestone in the evolution of satellite technology. By reducing reliance on ground control, these satellites promise cost-effective operations, enhanced safety, and greater autonomy for space missions.

29 Nov 2024

Global News

'Lignosat', the First Wooden Satellite in History, is Launched Into Space by Japan.

Japanese scientists launched LignoSat, the first wooden satellite in history, on Tuesday to test the viability of using wood in space. The wooden satellite, LignoSat, was built in collaboration with Kyoto University and homebuilder Sumitomo Forestry and launched on a SpaceX mission to the International Space Station (ISS). The satellite will sit about 400 kilometers above the ground. In order to evaluate the feasibility of using a renewable resource for future space exploration and habitation, the mini-satellite was launched. Takao Doi, a professor at Kyoto University and an astronaut, sees wood as a renewable resource that will enable long-term human habitation in space. According to Doi, “With timber, a material we can produce ourselves, we can build houses, live, and work in space indefinitely.” ~ ( Source: Google Images) Wooden Aircraft is the Inspiration Behind this Rare Approach ~ When Mind takes Unique Perspectives Towards Mudane ways of science ~ (Source: Google Images) The scientists' team created LignoSat using Honoki wood, a Japanese magnolia species traditionally used for sword sheaths. The decision was made following a 10-month ISS study that confirmed the Honoki's durability in space. The Doi's team is preparing for an ambitious 50-year strategy to send timber structures to the Moon and Mars. The spacecraft is developed with a NASA-certified wooden satellite that validates wood as a material suitable for space.The spacecraft will assess the wood's resistance to the hostile space environment during its six-month orbit around the Earth. The space's temperature fluctuates sharply between -100 and 100 degrees Celsius, putting the wood's resilience to harsh environments to the test. The wood's capacity to shield semiconductor components from cosmic radiation will also be examined while it is in orbit, assisting with future space data center designs.Maybe a Strong Substitute For 'Metal' ? In the Path Towards Making Space Junk Free ~ ( Google Images) While wooden satellites have a low environmental impact and emit little pollution, metal satellites release aluminum oxide when they re-enter the atmosphere. Doi thinks that the popularity of wooden replacements could lead to "the ban of metal satellites" in the future.

7 Nov 2024

Global News

Lost Worlds Found: Satellite Uncover Serbia's Ancient Past

Serbia's rich historical heritage has been further unveiled as satellite images have exposed hidden Bronze Age settlements, bringing to light 100 previously unknown sites. The discovery sheds new light on the region's past and connects it to ancient civilizations like the Myceneans, ancient Egyptians, and Babylon. An international research team, comprising members from Serbia, Ireland, England, and Slovenia, initiated the project in 2015. By analyzing aerial surveying and satellite imagery, they identified over 100 habitations on the Pannonian Plane in Northeast Serbia. These settlements were characterized by large enclosures, protected by ditches and earthen ramparts, some spanning over 2,400 acres with extensive defensive works. The enclosures, strategically positioned near major rivers such as the Tisza, Bega, and Timis, formed a north-south corridor believed to be part of the Lower Pannonian Network, a crucial trade route for bronze connecting the region to the Mediterranean. Excavations conducted on foot within these sites uncovered invaluable artifacts such as household refuse, pottery shards, animal bones, and other remnants, allowing for radiocarbon dating that established a timeline from approximately 1,600 BCE to 1,200 BCE. While definitive details about the ancient inhabitants and their way of life remain elusive, the proximity of the enclosures suggests a potential collective effort by a clan or a small group of families involved in the bronze trade. This groundbreaking discovery not only redefines our understanding of the late Bronze Age but also opens up new avenues for further exploration and research. The interconnectedness of these sites reveals a complex network of trade and cultural exchange that spanned vast distances and transcended linguistic and geographic barriers. The revelation of these hidden settlements underscores Serbia's significant role in the ancient world and invites us to reimagine the past through a newfound lens of historical richness and connectivity.

21 Nov 2023

Global News

Positive Reads

11-Year-Old Prodigy Gets Selected for NASA's Cubes In Space Program!

For a remarkable display of passion and innovation, Pune’s 11-year-old Rohan Bhansali has been selected For NASA's Cubes In Space Program! Through this program, students aged 11 to 18 are granted the opportunity to design and test experiments utilizing small-sized satellites on NASA missions. Speaking about his creation, Rohan shared insights into his compact 4 by 4 cm experiment, ingeniously equipped with sensors, a small computer, and an intricate coded program that renders the experiment completely automated. He is full of excitement as he awaits the outcome of his experiment. The quest to understand the perils of human spaceflight has long captivated NASA's attention, particularly in relation to the profound impact of radiation on astronauts. Despite their protective shielding, astronauts receive a daily dosage of radiation equivalent to enduring eight chest X-rays. To mitigate this inherent danger, the selection of materials commonly employed in everyday life, such as silk, aluminum, and plastic, is now serving a dual purpose. Rohan's ingenuity lies in recognizing that these seemingly mundane materials might hold the key to fortifying the astronauts' defense against the relentless assault of UV radiation during their space missions. By subjecting these materials to rigorous testing within the confines of his compact experiment, he aims to uncover substances that offer enhanced protection to the astronauts as they voyage into the unknown reaches of the cosmos. Who knows, Rohan’s experiment might become the stepping stone that paves the way for bolder strides into the cosmos, expanding the horizons of human exploration like never before.

19 Jul 2023

Positive Reads

Know How Space Kidz India Is Empowering India’s Next Generation of Scientists

It was an incredible moment of pride for Space Kidz India as their satellite AzaadiSat 2.0 was successfully launched by ISRO's SSLV D2. Space Kidz India is a 7-year-old aerospace startup, working in the design, fabrication, and launch of small satellites, spacecraft, and ground systems. The organization has launched 18+ BalloonSats, 3 sub-orbital payloads, and 3 orbital satellites thus far. Dr. Srimathy Kesan, the founder and CEO of Space Kidz India, expressed her joy and excitement over the launch. She had envisioned the mission for Azaadi ka Amrit Mahotsav a few years prior, and 750 girls from 75 schools all over India participated in its development. AzaadiSat 2.0 included 75 student experiments and was part of the payload aboard India's Space Research Organisation's SSLV-D2. The satellite became operational at 10:30 AM on February 10th, broadcasting its first message: "Namaste World". Students between the ages of 14-17 worked on coding and programming of the sensors designed to work in space. 14-year-old Vidya, who studies in the 9th standard at the New English School in Kolhar Budruk, Maharashtra, was one of the participants. With the help of her teacher, Dattatray Angad Ghawale, Vidya and nine other students were trained to code on the PCBs sent by Space Kidz India. The PCBs were then sent back and were integrated into the satellites by Space Kidz. In addition to the student experiments, AzaadiSat-2 is also equipped with a long-range transmitter, a solid-state radiation sensor, and an expandable structure. This structure allows the satellite to become eight times its size once it reaches orbit and have the capability to produce more power. Space Kidz India's successful launch of AzaadiSat 2.0 is a remarkable achievement for both India's Space Research Organisation and Space Kidz India itself. It signifies the hard work and dedication of not only the aerospace startup, but also the students and teachers who came together to innovate and create.

14 Feb 2023

Positive Reads

Star Citizens

Meet the Mastermind Behind India's Burgeoning Space Industry

Pawan Kumar Chandana is a leading figure in India's burgeoning space industry as the Co-founder and CEO of Skyroot Aerospace. The company is at the forefront of developing and manufacturing launch vehicles for small satellites, a sector that has seen rapid growth in recent years. Chandana, who holds a master's degree in Thermal Science & Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur, has been passionate about space since childhood. He worked at the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) for several years before co-founding Skyroot Aerospace in 2018 with fellow IIT Madras graduate Naga Bharath Daka. Under Chandana's leadership, Skyroot Aerospace has achieved several milestones, including the successful test-firing of its Vikram-1 rocket engine in 2022. The engine, named after Vikram Sarabhai, the father of the Indian space program, uses a unique propulsion technology that reduces the weight and cost of launch vehicles while increasing their efficiency. Skyroot Aerospace has also secured multiple contracts with the Indian Space Research Organisation and private companies to launch satellites into orbit. The company is currently developing a family of launch vehicles, including the Vikram series and the Rohini series, which can carry payloads of up to 700 kilograms and 3500 kilograms, respectively. Chandana and Skyroot Aerospace are paving the way for India's space industry, demonstrating that the country has the expertise and technology to compete on a global scale. With Chandana's leadership and vision, Skyroot Aerospace is poised to become a major player in the small satellite launch market, and the future of India's space program looks brighter than ever.

27 Feb 2023

Star Citizens

The Smallest Satellite Ever Launched by NASA Is Made by a 17-Year-Old Indian

When Rifath Sharook looks up to the sky, the firmament beckons him to explore. Rifath saw his dream come true when he designed and developed the world’s smallest satellite. He named his small creation KalamSat, in honor of the nuclear physicist and former Indian President Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam. This mini-satellite weighs only 64 gm and is similar to a rubic cube that fits into a palm. He used 3D printing to create miniature spacecraft. The satellite was able to meet the requirements established by NASA for its built-in carbon fiber. On June 22, 2017, Mr. Sharook witnessed the launch of his small satellite during a Terrier Orion-sounding rocket mission. In 12 minutes, the tiny satellite finished its task. The mission's goal was to evaluate the carbon fiber's performance in challenging circumstances. The team was thrilled as the mission was successful. Sharook took part in the NASA and "I Doodle Learning" competition "Cubes in orbit" with his invention. This was his ticket to space. The competition had participation from about 80,000 pupils. His project garnered a lot of attention. Since he was a young child, Sharook has been a member of the Chennai-based Space Kidz India organization. The Kalam SAT was developed as a result of this experience and early stimulation, which produced unexpected outcomes. According to the young scientist, Abdul Kashif, the lead engineer in charge of the engineering calculations, Yagna Sai, the chief technologist, and their strong team contributed to the success of the Kalam SAT. The simulation and flight calculations were planned by flight engineer Tanishq Dwivedi. The satellite's structure and exterior cladding were handled by structural engineer Vinay Bharadwaj.

21 Dec 2022

Star Citizens

Lightest satellite invented by eighteen-year-old to be launched by NASA

Making India proud at the international level, an invention of a young scientist of world’s lightest satellite will be launched from Wallops Island, a NASA facility. This will be the first time an Indian student's experiment will be flown by NASA. Hailing to a unknown town of Pallapatti in Tamil Nadu, eighteen-year-old Rifath Sharook is set to break a global space record. As per a report published in The Times of India, Rifath said it will be a sub-orbital flight and post-launch, the mission span will be 240 minutes and the tiny satellite will operate for 12 minutes in a micro-gravity environment of space. “The main role of the satellite will be to demonstrate the performance of 3-D printed carbon fibre,” he explained. The satellite was selected through a competition called 'Cubes in Space', jointly organised by NASA and organisation called 'I Doodle Learning'. For Sharook, the main challenge was to design an experiment to be flown to space which will fit into a four-metre cube weighing exactly 64 grams. "We did a lot of research on different cube satellites all over the world and found ours was the lightest," he said. Rifath informed that the satellite is made mainly of reinforced carbon fibre polymer. "We obtained some of the components from abroad and some are indigenous," he said.

15 May 2017

Star Citizens

Global Inspirations

World's Tiniest Satellite Carrying- Rocket By Japan

Japan launched a microsatellite on Saturday after a failed attempt of the same in last year in January. The rocket is said to be as small as a utility pole of a size 10 metres in length and 50 centimetres in diameter. The rocket was lifted off from the Uchinoura Space Centre in Kagoshima Prefecture. The launch was successful and the satellite weighs about 3 kilograms. It was developed by the University of Tokyo to college images of Earth's surface.

5 Feb 2018

Global Inspirations