SDSC-SHAR, Sriharikota : The GSLV-F14/INSAT-3DS mission is scheduled to launch on Saturday, February 17, 2024, at 17:30 Hrs. IST from SDSC-SHAR, Sriharikota. This marks the 16th mission for GSLV, with the objective of placing the INSAT-3DS meteorological satellite into Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO). Following the launch, a series of orbit-raising maneuvers will be conducted to position the satellite into a Geo-stationary Orbit.
- GSLV-F14 :
– The Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) is a formidable three-stage launch system measuring 51.7 meters in length and boasting a liftoff mass of 420 tonnes. Its first stage (GS1) is powered by a solid propellant (S139) motor containing 139 tons of propellant, augmented by four earth-storable propellant stages (L40) known as strapons, each carrying 40 tons of liquid propellant. The second stage (GS2) also utilizes earth-storable propellant, loaded with 40 tons of propellant. The third stage (GS3) employs cryogenic technology, with a 15-ton propellant load of liquid oxygen (LOX) and liquid hydrogen (LH2). During its ascent through the atmosphere, the satellite payload is safeguarded by an Ogive payload fairing.The GSLV is versatile, capable of launching various types of spacecraft designed for tasks such as communication, navigation, earth resource surveys, and specialized missions as per requirements.
- INSAT-3DS :
– The INSAT-3DS Satellite represents a continuation of the Third Generation Meteorological Satellite program, operating from Geostationary Orbit. Fully funded by the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), the GSLV-F14/INSAT-3DS mission is geared towards advanced meteorological observations and the monitoring of both land and ocean surfaces, facilitating improved weather forecasting and disaster warning capabilities. Serving as an augmentation to existing meteorological services, alongside the operational INSAT-3D and INSAT-3DR satellites, INSAT-3DS has seen significant contributions from Indian industries in its development. Departments within the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), including the India Meteorology Department (IMD), National Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasting (NCMRWF), Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), Indian National Center for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS), and various other agencies and institutes, will utilize data from the INSAT-3DS Satellite to enhance weather forecasts and meteorological services for the benefit of society.
- primary objectives of the mission:
1. Monitor the Earth’s surface, conduct oceanic observations, and assess environmental conditions across multiple spectral channels crucial for meteorological analysis.
2. Furnish vertical profiles of various meteorological parameters within the atmosphere.
3. Enable data collection and dissemination capabilities through Data Collection Platforms (DCPs).
4. Offer Satellite Aided Search and Rescue (SAR) services to aid in emergency response efforts.