The countdown for the launch of the INSAT-3DS meteorological satellite aboard a Geosynchronous Launch Vehicle (GSLV) rocket is proceeding smoothly, according to ISRO's latest update on Saturday.
The primary goal of this mission is to ensure the continuity of services provided by the operational INSAT-3D and INSAT-3DR, enhancing meteorological observations, monitoring land and ocean surfaces for weather forecasting, disaster warnings, and providing satellite-aided Research and Rescue Services.
The 27.5-hour countdown began at 2:30 pm on Friday at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, marking the launch scheduled for later today at 5:35 pm from the second launch pad. This GSLV rocket, equipped with a cryogenic upper stage, is anticipated to separate the 2,274 kg Indian National Satellite System (INSAT) into the Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit after about 20 minutes of flight. Following this, scientists will execute a series of maneuvers to position the satellite into the Geostationary orbit in the coming days.
Measuring 51.7 meters in height, the rocket will carry imager payloads, sounder payloads, data relay transponders, and Satellite-aided Search and Rescue transponders to study various aspects such as cloud properties, fog, rainfall, snow cover, snow depth, fire, smoke, land, and ocean. The data provided by INSAT-3DS will benefit various departments of the Ministry of Earth Sciences, including the India Meteorological Department, National Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasting, Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, National Institute of Ocean Technology, Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services, and other agencies and institutes to improve weather forecasts and meteorological services.
Sources indicate that the INSAT-3DS mission is expected to have a lifespan of around 10 years. This mission marks ISRO's second successful launch in 2024, following the PSLV-C58/EXPOSAT launch on January 1.
(With inputs from PTI)
