Sriharikota, India : The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) jointly launched the world’s costliest Earth-observation satellite, NISAR (NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar), from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota.
The launch was carried out using the GSLV-F16 rocket, successfully placing the satellite into orbit approximately 743 km above Earth’s surface.
A Technological Marvel to Map the Earth Like Never Before
- NISAR is designed to complete 1,273 orbits in just 12 days, delivering high-resolution data from every inch of the planet.
- Unlike traditional satellites, NISAR can detect minute changes on the Earth’s surface, including shifts caused by climate change, natural disasters, and tectonic movements.
- First-of-its-kind dual-frequency radar satellite (L-band and S-band), providing unmatched data accuracy.
- Developed collaboratively by NASA and ISRO, combining U.S. radar payload and India’s satellite bus and launch vehicle.
- Will play a crucial role in monitoring climate change, agricultural patterns, forest mapping, glacial movements, and disaster response.
- With a project cost exceeding $1.5 billion, it becomes the most expensive Earth-observing satellite ever built.
While conventional satellites have limitations in monitoring rapid and subtle environmental changes, NISAR steps in with unparalleled precision and global coverage, offering real-time insights into the planet’s dynamic surface.
The name ‘NISAR’—short for NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar—reflects the powerful collaboration between the two space giants. It also symbolizes the fusion of advanced American radar technology with Indian satellite engineering prowess.
With NISAR’s launch, India and the world enter a new era of earth monitoring and space-based environmental intelligence. This revolutionary satellite stands as a testament to scientific innovation, global collaboration, and a shared commitment to protecting our planet.
