RNS: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is all set to launch a meteorological satellite into space aboard a Geosynchronous Launch Vehicle (GSLV) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. The rocket, affectionately dubbed the “naughty boy,” is scheduled to lift off at 5.35 pm on Saturday for its 16th mission overall and 10th flight using the indigenously developed cryogenic engine.
The primary objective of this mission is to place INSAT 3DS into a geosynchronous transfer orbit. INSAT 3DS is tasked with monitoring the Earth’s surface, conducting oceanic observations, and assessing the environment in various spectral channels of meteorological significance.
ISRO officials have reported that the 27-hour countdown for the GSLV F14 mission has been progressing smoothly. Once in orbit, the satellite will gather critical meteorological parameters of the atmosphere and provide data on weather-related aspects, as well as satellite-aided search and rescue services.
INSAT-3Ds is a follow-on mission to the Third Generation Meteorological Satellite from geostationary orbit. Alongside INSAT 3D and 3DR, already in orbit, the mission is designed for monitoring land and ocean surfaces for weather forecasting and disaster warning. The payloads of the satellite include an optical radiometer, sounder payload, data relay transponder, and search and rescue transponder.
Stay tuned for updates on this exciting launch as ISRO continues to push the boundaries of space exploration and satellite technology.
