ISRO to launch RISAT

ISRO to launch RISAT

ISRO is to launch the RISAT – 2BR1 using the PSLV – C48, which is the 50th mission of PSLV, from the First Launch Pad of Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR, Sriharikota. RISAT (Radar Imaging Satellite), built by ISRO, is a series of RADAR imaging reconnaissance satellites by India which provides all-weather surveillance using Synthetic Aperture Radars (SAR) and is the first of the kind by ISRO. The duration of the mission is planned to be 5 years.

Key Points:

• The previous observation satellites like RESOURCESAT-1, 2, 2A, CARTOSAT-1, 2, 2A and 2B etc. primarily  rely on optical and spectral sensors which were hampered by the cloud cover.
• The RISAT – 2BR1 has a resolution of 0.35mts, by which two objects separated by a distance of 0.35 meters can be identified distinctly.
• The primary intention in launching the satellite is for border surveillance, to deter insurgent infiltration and for Anti-terrorist operations and is likely to be placed under the Aerospace Command of the India Air Force (IAF).