INSAT-3DS Begins Imaging The Earth, First Pics Are Out
INSAT-3DS, ISRO’s cutting-edge meteorological satellite, has commenced Earth imaging operations, unveiling its inaugural set of images captured on March 7, 2024. Launched into orbit on February 17, 2024, INSAT-3DS swiftly ascended to its designated geostationary slot following meticulous orbit-raising maneuvers, said a statement from India’s Space organisation, Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO).
In the ensuing In Orbit Testing (IOT) phase, conducted between February 29 and March 3, 2024, the satellite”s Satellite Communications capabilities underwent rigorous assessment, affirming their operational integrity.
Venturing into the realm of Meteorological Payload IOT, INSAT-3DS embarked on its maiden imaging session for the Imager and Sounder payloads on March 7, 2024. Remarkably, the payload parameters were found to be within optimal ranges, in adherence to stringent specifications, signifying the payloads” readiness for operational deployment.
INSAT-3DS Begins Imaging The Earth, First Pics Are Out
Crafted with precision at the esteemed Space Applications Centre (SAC), Ahmedabad, the Imager and Sounder payloads represent a leap forward in satellite instrumentation. Equipped with enhanced radiometric accuracy, refined thermal management, and augmented imaging throughput, these payloads promise groundbreaking capabilities for Earth observation.
The 6-channel Imager equipment captures intricate details of the Earth”s surface and atmosphere across various spectral wavelengths, empowering scientists with invaluable insights into phenomena ranging from cloud dynamics to vegetation health. Meanwhile, the 19-channel Sounder delves into the depths of the atmosphere, deciphering vital information about atmospheric constituents and properties crucial for weather forecasting and climate monitoring.
Harnessing the power of these advanced payloads, INSAT-3DS generates a treasure trove of over 40 geophysical data products, including Sea Surface Temperature, Rainfall Patterns, Land Surface Temperature, and Atmospheric Motion Vectors, among others. These data offerings are poised to revolutionize weather forecasting, climate research, and atmospheric studies, empowering scientists and policymakers with unprecedented insights into our planet”s dynamic systems.
