Context
Recent analysis of visible satellite imagery and INSAT-3DR infrared images indicated that nearly 60–70% of India’s landmass was under cloud cover, highlighting the satellite’s role in continuous weather monitoring.
About INSAT-3DR
- INSAT-3DR (Indian National Satellite-3DR) is India’s advanced geostationary meteorological satellite, developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
- It was launched on 8th September 2016 aboard the GSLV-F05 launch vehicle.
- It is designed to provide continuous weather observation, cyclone tracking, disaster warning, and environmental monitoring over India and the surrounding region.
- The satellite succeeds INSAT-3D, ensuring continuity while strengthening India’s capabilities in meteorological observation, data relay, and search-and-rescue services.
Key Features
- It carries an Imaging System that captures multispectral images of clouds, land, and oceans for continuous weather monitoring.
- An Atmospheric Sounder measures atmospheric temperature and humidity profiles, improving the accuracy of weather forecasting.
- A Data Relay Transponder (DRT) receives and transmits data from remote observation platforms across land and sea.
- A Search and Rescue Transponder (SART) detects and relays distress signals from ships, aircraft, and emergency beacons to support rescue operations.
- Operating from a geostationary orbit, INSAT-3DR provides multispectral images every 30 minutes, enabling continuous monitoring of weather systems over the Indian region.
Key Improvements over INSAT-3D
- Middle Infrared (MIR) imaging enables the detection of low clouds and fog during night-time, improving weather observation under low-light conditions.
- Two Thermal Infrared (TIR) bands provide more accurate estimation of Sea Surface Temperature (SST), enhancing weather forecasting and ocean monitoring.
- Higher spatial resolution in the Visible and Thermal Infrared bands enables clearer and more detailed observation of weather systems.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is INSAT-3DR?
INSAT-3DR is India’s advanced geostationary meteorological satellite, developed by ISRO to improve weather forecasting, cyclone tracking, disaster warning, environmental monitoring, and search-and-rescue services.
When was INSAT-3DR launched?
INSAT-3DR was launched on 8 September 2016 aboard the GSLV-F05 launch vehicle.
What are the major payloads carried by INSAT-3DR?
INSAT-3DR carries an Imaging System for multispectral weather imaging, an Atmospheric Sounder for measuring atmospheric temperature and humidity, a Data Relay Transponder (DRT) for transmitting data from remote observation platforms, and a Search and Rescue Transponder (SART) for relaying distress signals.
What is the significance of the Middle Infrared (MIR) band in INSAT-3DR?
The Middle Infrared (MIR) band enables the detection of low clouds and fog during night-time, improving weather forecasting, aviation safety, and fog monitoring.
How does INSAT-3DR improve Sea Surface Temperature (SST) estimation?
The satellite uses two Thermal Infrared (TIR) bands to estimate Sea Surface Temperature (SST) more accurately, supporting weather forecasting, ocean studies, and marine services.
What is a geostationary satellite?
A geostationary satellite orbits the Earth at the same rotational speed as the Earth, allowing it to continuously observe the same geographical region.
How does INSAT-3DR contribute to disaster management?
INSAT-3DR provides continuous weather monitoring, early warning of severe weather events, and emergency communication support, enabling authorities to improve preparedness and respond effectively to natural disasters
