Countdown Begins for PSLV-C62 Launch: Key Details for UPSC
Countdown starts for PSLV-C62 launch, carrying weather satellite INSAT-3DS.
Photo by Claudio Schwarz
Quick Revision
Launch vehicle: PSLV-C62
Satellite: INSAT-3DS
Launch site: Sriharikota
Visual Insights
PSLV-C62 Launch Site: Sriharikota
Map showing the location of Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, the launch site for PSLV-C62 carrying INSAT-3DS. Highlights the strategic importance of the location for ISRO's launch operations.
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Exam Angles
GS Paper III: Science and Technology - Developments and their applications and effects in everyday life
GS Paper I: Geography - Climatology, weather systems
Potential question types: Statement-based, application-based
View Detailed Summary
Summary
Background
The Indian National Satellite System (INSAT) program, a joint venture of the Department of Space, Department of Telecommunications, India Meteorological Department, All India Radio, and Doordarshan, began in 1983 with the launch of INSAT-1A. This marked a significant step towards self-reliance in space-based services. Prior to INSAT, India relied on foreign satellites for communication and weather forecasting.
The INSAT system revolutionized communication, television broadcasting, weather forecasting, and disaster warning in India. The early INSAT satellites were primarily procured from foreign manufacturers, but gradually, indigenous capabilities were developed, leading to the design and manufacturing of advanced INSAT satellites within India. This evolution reflects India's growing expertise in space technology and its commitment to using space assets for national development.
Latest Developments
In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on enhancing the resolution and accuracy of weather forecasting models. This includes incorporating more sophisticated data assimilation techniques and leveraging artificial intelligence and machine learning. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has been actively collaborating with various national and international agencies to improve weather forecasting capabilities.
Furthermore, there is a trend towards developing smaller and more agile satellites for specific meteorological applications. The future outlook involves integrating data from multiple sources, including satellites, ground-based observatories, and weather balloons, to create a comprehensive and real-time weather monitoring system. The focus is also on developing user-friendly tools and applications that can disseminate weather information to the public in a timely and effective manner.
Practice Questions (MCQs)
1. Consider the following statements regarding the Indian National Satellite (INSAT) system: 1. INSAT is a multipurpose geostationary satellite system for telecommunications, broadcasting, meteorology, and search and rescue operations. 2. The INSAT program is solely managed and funded by the Department of Space. 3. Early INSAT satellites were primarily procured from foreign manufacturers. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.1 and 3 only
- C.2 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: B
Statement 2 is incorrect because the INSAT program is a joint venture of multiple departments, not solely managed by the Department of Space.
2. With reference to Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), which of the following statements is NOT correct?
- A.It is a four-stage launch vehicle with alternating solid and liquid stages.
- B.It can launch satellites into Geostationary Transfer Orbit (GTO).
- C.It is primarily used for launching Earth observation satellites.
- D.It has been used for launching satellites for interplanetary missions like Chandrayaan and Mangalyaan.
Show Answer
Answer: B
PSLV is primarily used for launching satellites into Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and not Geostationary Transfer Orbit (GTO). GTO launches are typically done by GSLV.
3. Consider the following statements regarding weather forecasting in India: 1. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) is the primary agency responsible for weather forecasting. 2. Weather forecasting models in India rely solely on data from INSAT satellites. 3. Recent advancements include the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning in weather prediction. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.1 and 3 only
- C.2 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: B
Statement 2 is incorrect because weather forecasting models use data from multiple sources, including satellites, ground-based observatories, and weather balloons.