Why in news
- ISRO announced the launch schedule for GISAT-1A to restore operational cadence following launch vehicle reviews.
Key points
- GISAT-1A is a specialized continuous Earth observation satellite designed to operate from Geostationary Earth Orbit.
- Unlike Low Earth Orbit imaging satellites that pass over specific regions periodically, geostationary position allows continuous real-time monitoring of the Indian subcontinent.
- The satellite is built to facilitate rapid disaster management monitoring, border surveillance, and agricultural yield tracking.
- The mission marks ISRO's operational resumption after technical investigations into previous Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle missions.
Key terms
Geostationary Earth Orbit
A circular orbit 35,786 km directly above the Earth's equator where a satellite's orbital period matches Earth's rotation.
Earth Observation Satellite
A satellite specifically designed to collect imagery and data about Earth's physical, chemical, and biological systems.
Prelims facts
- Satellites in Geostationary Orbit maintain a fixed position relative to a specific spot on the Earth's equator.
- Continuous imaging from GEO provides real-time monitoring compared to periodic observations from LEO.
Mains discussion
- Discuss the strategic and socio-economic applications of placing Earth observation payloads in geostationary orbits versus low earth orbits.
Source: The Hindu
Same topic · past papers
UPSC has asked this before
These previous-year questions sit on the same topic. Open one to practise the earlier ask.
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2018 · Q95 · General Studies · 2 marks
With reference to India's satellite launch vehicles, consider the following statements: 1. PSLVs launch the satellite useful for Earth resources monitoring whereas GSLVs are designed mainly to launch communication satellites. 2. Satellites launched by PSLV appear to remain permanently fixed in the same position in the sky, as viewed from a particular location in Earth. 3. GSLV Mk III is a four-staged launch vehicle with the first and third stages using solid rocket motors; and the second and fourth stages using liquid rocket engines. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? -
2023 · Q57 · General Studies · 2 marks
Which one the following countries has its own Satellite Navigation System? -
2021 · Q73 · General Studies · 2 marks
The term 'ACE2' is talked about in the context of -
2019 · Q32 · General Studies · 2 marks
For the measurement/ estimation of which of the following are satellite images/remote sensing data used? 1. Chlorophyll content in the vegetation of a specific location 2. Greenhouse gas emissions from rice paddies of a specific location 3. Land surface temperatures of a specific location Select the correct answer using the code given below -
2018 · Q4 · GS I · 10 marks
Why is Indian Regional Navigational Satellite System (IRNSS) needed? How does it help in navigation?