The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) is all set to launch the Weather satellite INSAT-3DR from its GSLV-F05 rocket today. The launch will happen at 04:10 PM from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.
This satellite will be a successor to the 2013 launched satellite INSAT-3D. Both the satellites will join the larger class of meteorological satellites operated by ISRO, which includes the KALPANA-1 and the INSAT-3A. All these satellites are in the geostationary orbit.
The GSLV (Geo-synchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle) will be carrying the INSAT 3DR which weighs around 2211kgs. The satellite will be placed in a geo-synchronous orbit around 36,000 km above Earth.
The INSAT-3DR is a special satellite that has the imaging capabilities for night-time pictures. The satellite also carries a special search and rescue transponder. This transponder will help in satellite-aided rescue operations.
Upon reaching the Geostationary Transfer Orbit, the 2,211kg satellite INSAT-3DR will use its own propulsion system to reach the final destination. As soon as the INSAT-3DR reaches the proposed GTO, the solar panels of the satellite will be deployed.
The satellite is expected to last for a minimum of 10 years.
The GSLV rocket will use its indigenous cryogenic engine which is being tested for the tenth time. This is its first operational launch. The success of this GSLV is critical for ISRO as this will be the vehicle to launch the Chandrayaan-2 in 2017.
Image Credit: IndianExpress
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