What is Dror-1? A game-changer technology developed by Israel which will work like a 'smartphone' in space? Know its specialties
Israel's new satellite: Following a war with Iran and in a big step towards global security, communication and strategic balance, Israel has launched its first fully government and indigenous communication satellite 'Dror-1'. This satellite is a geostationary satellite as well as equipped with technology like 'space smartphone'. Know more specifics about the missile.
What is Dror-1?
Israel's first fully government-funded and locally-made communication satellite was launched from Cape Canaveral in the US on a SpaceX Falcon-9 rocket. Such geostationary satellites remain stationary at a fixed point about 36,000 km above the Earth.
How will it work?
Just like apps, networks and settings can be changed in a smartphone, Dror-1 can also be reprogrammed from the ground in real time as per the mission. It can change its beam and focus to cover different areas like war, disaster, strategic communication.
Why is it important for Israel?
This is the country's first government-owned satellite. Earlier satellites (like Amos-6) were owned by private companies, which also had technical accidents. Dror-1 has strengthened Israel's sovereignty, self-reliance and strategic control. Its cost has been estimated to be around Rs 1,670 crore.
Israel is a geopolitically sensitive country. Any major space or defense project of Israel has strategic importance for the Middle East, America, Europe and Asia. Making a high-tech communication satellite with 100% domestic technology of Dror-1 can become a roadmap for many countries.
Will it impact India?
India has a number of advanced communication satellites, many based on indigenous technology and owned by the government. India has started work on reconfigurable payloads (such as Software Defined Radio, SDR). ISRO is now moving towards full indigenous capabilities in this area.
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