In the wake of the triumphant launch of the INSAT-3DS meteorological satellite, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is now set to embark on an ambitious collaboration with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). The joint venture, named the NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR), is poised for liftoff next month, marking a significant milestone in space exploration.
NISAR, heralded as the first radar imaging satellite employing dual frequencies, will integrate two distinct radars – an ‘L’ band radar crafted by the United States and an ‘S’ band radar engineered by India. Contrary to misconceptions, ISRO Chief S Somanath clarified that NISAR is not a surveillance satellite but a pioneering project aimed at studying Earth’s transformations in the wake of climate change.
Scheduled for launch aboard the GSLV rocket, NISAR’s configuration aligns seamlessly with its colossal mission scope. The satellite will scrutinize a broad spectrum of changes on the Earth’s surface, offering unparalleled insights into both land and ice-covered regions. The three-year tenure of the NISAR mission promises groundbreaking observations, with the entire globe mapped every 12-14 days.
Somanath highlighted the rocket’s evolving capabilities, stating, “The configuration and capability of the rocket has been steadily increasing in terms of payload capability as well as volume, which is going to be extremely useful.”
The INSAT-3DS meteorological satellite, launched on February 17 in the GSLV F14 spacecraft’s 16th mission, further solidified ISRO’s prowess in space exploration. Designed for weather forecasting and natural disaster warnings, the satellite is a testament to India’s commitment to advancing space technology.
As anticipation builds for the NISAR launch, ISRO continues to forge ahead in its mission to unravel the mysteries of the cosmos and contribute valuable data for Earth’s better understanding.
