Context:
The INSAT-3DS meteorological satellite is set to embark on its space journey aboard a Geosynchronous Launch Vehicle (GSLV), marking a crucial mission. The GSLV-F14, known colloquially as the “naughty boy” for its checkered history, will take off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.
- This launch will be the 16th mission for the GSLV and its 10th flight featuring the domestically developed cryogenic engine.
Relevance:
GS III: Science and Technology
Dimensions of the Article:
- Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV-F14): Technical Details
- Significance of the GSLV-F14/INSAT-3DS Mission
Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV-F14): Technical Details
- The GSLV is a towering three-stage launch vehicle standing at 51.7 meters in length with a liftoff mass of 420 tonnes.
- The first stage (GS1) features a solid propellant (S139) motor carrying 139 tons of propellant, along with four earth-storable propellant stages (L40) strapons, each loaded with 40 tons of liquid propellant.
- The second stage (GS2) is another earth-storable propellant stage with a 40-ton propellant load.
- The third stage (GS3) is a cryogenic stage, holding 15 tons of liquid oxygen (LOX) and liquid hydrogen (LH2) propellants.
- GSLV is versatile, capable of launching spacecraft for communication, navigation, earth resource surveys, and various proprietary missions.
GSLV-F14/INSAT-3DS Mission and its Primary Objectives
About the Mission:
- INSAT-3DS Satellite signifies a continuation of Third Generation Meteorological Satellites in Geostationary Orbit, with substantial contributions from Indian industries.
- The mission, entirely funded by the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), serves to enhance Meteorological services in conjunction with the operational INSAT-3D and INSAT-3DR satellites.
Primary Objectives:
- Monitor Earth’s surface, conduct Oceanic observations, and study the environment in meteorologically significant spectral channels.
- Provide vertical profiles of various meteorological parameters in the Atmosphere.
- Offer Data Collection and Dissemination capabilities through Data Collection Platforms (DCPs).
- Deliver Satellite Aided Search and Rescue services.
Significance of the GSLV-F14/INSAT-3DS Mission
Crucial Test for GSLV:
- The GSLV-F14/INSAT-3DS Mission holds significant importance as the GSLV has faced challenges, with four out of its 15 launches experiencing setbacks.
- In contrast, ISRO’s PSLV (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle) with 60 missions and LVM-3 with seven missions have a notably higher success rate.
- The success of this mission is critical, especially as the GSLV is slated to carry the Earth observation satellite NISAR later in the year, a collaborative effort between NASA and ISRO.
Transition to INSAT-3DS:
- INSAT-3DS, designed for a mission life of 10 years, will take over the responsibilities of INSAT-3D (launched in 2013) and INSAT-3DR (launched in 2016), both having completed their mission life.
Meteorological Advancements:
- The mission’s primary objectives include enhancing short-range forecasts of extreme weather events like thunderstorms.
- It will contribute to aviation safety by providing visibility estimates.
- The satellite will aid in the study of forest fires, smoke, snow cover, and support climate studies.
Operational Implications:
- The success of this mission will not only validate the GSLV’s reliability but also contribute to bolstering India’s capabilities in meteorological observations, benefiting a range of sectors from aviation to disaster management.
-Source: The Hindu
