Isro defers launch of Geo Imaging Satellite

The Indian Space Research Organization (Isro) has decided to further delay the launch date of Geo Imaging Satellite (GISAT-1) communication satellite due to the nationwide 21-day lockdown in the wake of the spread of the coronavirus. Earlier, Isro was slated to launch it on March 5 but had to abort the idea due to technical reasons.

In a statement, Isro said that the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV-F10) will launch GISAT-I from the second launch pad of Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR at Sriharikota.

GISAT-1 is an earth observing satellite with multi- and hyper-spectral imagery and a high-resolution camera. It also has a 700-mm Ritchey-Chretien telescope for earth observation beside data collection.

The satellite, while helping in boosting near real-time observation of the Indian subcontinent under cloud-free conditions, will also help in monitoring of natural disasters. GISAT-I communication satellite will also keep a constant watch on the borders.

The satellite has been designed to acquire spectral signatures of agriculture, minerology, forestry, cloud properties, disaster warning, snow, glaciers, and oceanography.

Meanwhile Isro has contributed more than Rs 5 crore, collected through voluntary contribution made by its employees and those engaged with the Department of Science, to the PM-CARES fund in the wake of the rapid spread of COVID 19 in the country.

In a statement on Thursday, the space agency reiterated its the commitment to stand in “solidarity with the entire nation to resolutely and effectively combat the global crisis precipitated by Corona virus today.” It also said that its scientists are researching the best methods to provide essential medical devices that protect and help treat the victims of COVID-19 pandemic in the country..