ISRO’s GSLV Achieves Consecutive Successes with INSAT-3DS Launch

• 19 Feb 2024

On 18^th February,2024, the Indian Space Research Organisation's (ISRO) GSLV rocket achieved its second consecutive success, placing the INSAT-3DS weather satellite into precise orbit, signaling a boost for future missions.

Key Points

• GSLV's Success: ISRO's GSLV records its second straight success with the INSAT-3DS launch, marking a significant milestone for India's space agency.
• Enhanced Performance: The GSLV not only executes a textbook launch but also carries an additional 50 kg payload, extending the satellite's life by three months.
• Satellite Deployment: The INSAT-3DS weather observation satellite is injected into a geosynchronous transfer orbit and will undergo orbit raising maneuvers before becoming operational.
• Payload Fairing Utilization: This launch marks the first utilization of the GSLV's larger payload fairing, accommodating the heavier INSAT-3DS satellite.
• Improved Payload Capacity: Gradual enhancements have increased GSLV's payload capacity by 50%, facilitating the deployment of larger satellites like INSAT-3DS.
• Mission Objectives: INSAT-3DS will aid in short-range weather forecasts, aviation visibility estimation, forest fire monitoring, and detection of potential fishing zones.
• Long-Term Mission: Funded by the Ministry of Earth Sciences, INSAT-3DS is expected to have a mission life of ten years, providing vital meteorological data.
• Continuous Improvement: ISRO aims for continuous upgrades in meteorological services, with future satellites like INSAT-4 utilizing new technologies for enhanced performance.