What is ISRO?
ISRO, or the Indian Space Research Organisation, is the space centre of India which achieved wonders many only dream of attaining. This space powerhouse kicked off its interstellar journey on August 15, 1969, making it as iconic as Indian culture but with a cosmic twist.
Based in Bengaluru, ISRO isn’t formed with just a bunch of space geeks, but pioneers. Their mission? To harness the wonders of space for India’s progress.
Now, let’s talk milestones! ISRO has slayed the space game with record-breaking launches, putting multiple satellites into orbit like it’s no big deal. And who could forget Mangalyaan, the mission that made India the first Asian nation to reach Mars orbit?
ISRO’s vibe is all about inclusivity. They’re not just exploring space, but making room for everyone passionate enough to hop on the cosmic caravan. So, next time you look at the stars, give a nod to ISRO – the wizards turning the dreams of a billion Indians into cosmic reality.
How was ISRO Formed?
ISRO, the big player in India’s space game, didn’t just pop out of nowhere. It all started with the Indian National Committee for Space Research (INCOSPAR) back in Nehru Ji’s time. And Dr. Vikram Sarabhai, the big dreamer, planted the seeds in 1962, setting the stage for India’s space saga.
Fast forward to August 15, 1969, and bam! INCOSPAR turned into the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), aiming to grab the cool tech from outer space. The Department of Space (DOS), the VIP section of the Indian government, took charge of ISRO in 1972, officially declaring ISRO as its brainchild.
ISRO Goals
Now, ISRO’s main gig is developing space tech for all sorts of Indian needs. This includes communication, TV broadcasting, weather checks, keeping an eye on resources, and helping us navigate through space. Their homegrown satellite launch vehicles like PSLV and GSLV are the real MVPs, throwing satellites exactly where they belong.
But wait, there’s more! Thanks to the Department of Space, particular research centres focus on things like remote sensing, astronomy, and even interplanetary missions. ISRO’s lunar adventures and scientific projects aren’t just for show as they’re dropping knowledge bombs globally.
ISRO Base
ISRO’s main den is in Bengaluru, but their influence is spread all over the country. Building launch vehicles? Head to Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre. Designing satellites? U R Rao Satellite Centre is the spot. Launching everything into space? Satish Dhawan Space Centre Sriharikota has got it covered.
Leading this cosmic adventure is the Chairman, who’s basically the hero with multiple roles, Chairman of the Space Commission, Secretary of DOS, and the big boss at ISRO, etc. From INCOSPAR days to now, ISRO has made space research an official factor in India, making strides, turning heads, and leaving a lasting mark on the nation’s scientific scene.
ISRO Successful Missions
Mangalyaan (Mars Orbiter Mission)
- Launched in November 2013, Mangalyaan marked India’s first interplanetary mission.
- India became the first Asian nation to reach Martian orbit and the first in the world to achieve such a feat in its maiden attempt.
- Mangalyaan provided valuable data about Mars and its atmosphere.
Chandrayaan-1
- Chandrayaan-1 was India’s first lunar probe, and it was launched in October 2008.
- It made a consequential discovery by confirming the presence of water molecules on the moon.
- Chandrayaan-1’s impactor, Moon Impact Probe (MIP), made India one of the few countries to impact the lunar surface.
PSLV-C37 (Cartosat-2 Series)
- Launched in February 2017, this mission set a world record by deploying 104 satellites in a single flight. This record was later broken by SpaceX.
- The primary payload, the Cartosat-2 Series satellite, was designed for earth observation.
What Are Some Upcoming Projects Of ISRO?
ISRO has outlined an ambitious plan for upcoming space missions in the next two years. Here are some very important points on India’s new approaching missions
NASA-Isro Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR)
- A joint effort between NASA and ISRO.
- Launch Date: Scheduled for 2024.
- Significance: First dual-band radar imaging satellite, focusing on Earth observation.
Gaganyaan Programme
- Testing for crewed missions, aiming to send Indian astronauts into space.
- Marks India’s entry into human spaceflight.
Other Significant Missions
INSAT-3DS: Communication satellite aiding meteorology and disaster management.
RISAT-1B and Resourcesat-3: Enhancing remote sensing capabilities.
TDS01 and SPADEX: Technological research and experimentation for lunar missions.
Oceansat-3A: Continuing legacy in oceanography and atmospheric studies.
Indian Data Relay Satellite System (IDRSS): Establishing a real-time communication link with remote sensing and scientific satellites.
GSAT-20: Maintaining telecommunication services.
NVS-02: Enhancing navigation systems.
Private Space Sector Involvement
Startups and Companies: As of November 2023, 523 startups and companies engaged with IN-SPACe (ISRO’s commercial arm).
Focus: 297 seeking support for research and development (R&D) and testing.
Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV) Project
Demonstrating technologies for cost-effective space access.
India’s space endeavours reflect a blend of exploration, communication, and innovation. They also put a strong emphasis on international collaboration and focus on advancements in various space-related domains.
