The Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) is ready to launch the INSAT-3DS satellite on Saturday.
This pivotal mission will take off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC-SHAR) in Sriharikota at 5:35 pm IST, marking a new chapter in India's space exploration journey.
The INSAT-3DS, a state-of-the-art meteorological satellite, is the latest addition to Isro's illustrious fleet, aiming to bolster the operational capabilities of the existing INSAT-3D and INSAT-3DR satellites.
Funded entirely by the Ministry of Earth Sciences, this advanced satellite is designed for enhanced meteorological observations and monitoring of land and ocean surfaces.
It promises to contribute significantly to more accurate weather forecasting and disaster warning capabilities, thereby improving disaster preparedness across the nation.
The satellite will be pushed into orbit aboard the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV-F14). The three-stage 51.7 m long launch vehicle with a liftoff mass of 420 tonnes, is tasked with deploying the INSAT-3DS into the Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO).
Following the launch, the satellite will undergo subsequent orbit-raising maneuvers to position itself in a Geo-stationary Orbit, further solidifying India's presence in space.
Indian industries have played a crucial role in the development of the INSAT-3DS satellite, showcasing the nation's technological prowess and fostering a self-reliant approach in space exploration.
The successful execution of this mission will advance India's meteorological capabilities.