INDO-US satellite NISAR will start scientific operations after 90 days
The 2,400 kg satellite will be carried into orbit by ISRO's Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle-F16 (GSLV-F16) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.
However, ISRO has clarified that while the launch is imminent, NISAR's dedicated scientific operations will not begin until approximately three months after it is successfully placed in orbit. This initial period will be critical for preparing the advanced observatory.
According to ISRO, the NISAR mission is structured into distinct phases. Following the Launch Phase on July 30, the satellite will enter its Deployment Phase. This crucial stage involves the complex in-orbit unfurling of NISAR's 12-meter diameter reflector, a key component developed by NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), which will extend 9 meters away from the satellite.
Subsequently, the mission will enter a 90-day Commissioning Phase, also known as "In-Orbit Checkout (IOC)." This period is solely dedicated to meticulously preparing the observatory for its scientific tasks. It will involve initial checks and calibrations of the satellite's core systems, followed by a thorough engineering checkout of the payload and instruments by JPL.
Only after the successful completion of this commissioning phase will the Science Operations Phase commence, extending for the duration of the mission's life. During this phase, NISAR's science orbit will be precisely maintained through regular maneuvers, strategically planned to minimize interference with scientific observations. Extensive calibration and validation (CalVal) activities will also be ongoing. The detailed observation plan for both the L-band and S-band instruments, along with all necessary engineering activities, are being meticulously generated prior to launch through continuous coordination between JPL and ISRO.
NISAR is poised to be a groundbreaking mission, providing unprecedented, high-resolution, all-weather, day-and-night data to observe Earth's changing ecosystems, dynamic surfaces, and ice masses. This data is expected to revolutionize our understanding of natural hazards like earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanoes, and landslides, as well as providing critical information for studies on climate change, agriculture, and water resources.
UNI VJ AAB
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Economic Times
an hour ago
- Economic Times
A nuclear reactor on the Moon? How the U.S. just unleashed a new era of space power to outpace China and Russia
Synopsis A nuclear reactor on the Moon is no longer science fiction. Under the bold leadership of Sean Duffy, NASA is fast-tracking plans to launch a powerful nuclear power system to the lunar surface. This mission marks the beginning of a new era of space energy, where solar isn't enough and nuclear becomes the key to powering future Moon bases. With a 100-kilowatt target, this project is set to change how we explore space. From surviving long lunar nights to supporting astronauts, this move could redefine U.S. leadership in space. And yes, it's already in motion. A nuclear reactor on the Moon? It's no longer just a sci-fi dream. The U.S. has officially unleashed a bold new space initiative under NASA's interim chief and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy—one that aims to power future lunar missions with a 100-kilowatt nuclear reactor. This game-changing plan marks the beginning of a new era in space exploration, where America is racing to stay ahead of global rivals like China and Russia. NASA plan for nuclear reactor on the Moon by 2030: In a move that could reshape the future of space exploration, interim NASA Administrator Sean Duffy, who also serves as Transportation Secretary and is a former Fox Business host, is expected to announce a fast-tracked plan to deploy a nuclear reactor on the Moon by the year 2030. This marks his first major agency initiative and signals the Trump administration's growing ambition to win the second space race—this time against China and Russia. NASA's goal is simple yet ambitious: power long-term lunar missions with a 100-kilowatt nuclear fission reactor. The technology will provide reliable, round-the-clock energy for astronauts, research stations, and equipment during the harsh 14-day lunar night, when solar power becomes unreliable. Unlike previous space energy systems, this lunar nuclear reactor would allow future missions to explore, mine, and survive in permanently shadowed craters near the Moon's south pole—potentially unlocking water, oxygen, and other vital resources. Sean Duffy is taking a more aggressive approach than past NASA leaders. While NASA had already been developing a 40-kilowatt fission surface power (FSP) system, Duffy has directed the agency to scale up to 100 kilowatts and shave years off the timeline—setting a launch target for 2030. He's also ordered: A 60-day deadline for industry proposals A designated lead coordinator inside NASA A full review of all nuclear power projects tied to lunar missions This push is all part of a broader strategy to outpace China, which is actively working on its own advanced lunar nuclear technology. Power is everything in space. And on the Moon, it's even more critical. Lunar nights last 14 Earth days—too long for solar panels to handle alone Nuclear power offers continuous energy, even in dark craters or during extreme cold A 100-kW reactor can power habitats, mining tools, scientific labs, and rovers at the same time Without nuclear, NASA would struggle to maintain permanent human presence on the Moon or build infrastructure needed for future Mars missions. The plan builds on NASA's Kilopower project, which successfully tested a small nuclear system back in 2018. The current design will likely: Be compact and lightweight, built to survive space launch Use highly enriched uranium to power a fission system Generate electricity through heat-to-electric converters Safety remains a top priority. All systems must meet strict launch and radiation standards to prevent harm in case of failure. The Department of Energy, FAA, and international agencies are expected to collaborate on safety protocols. Even with political backing, this won't be easy. Key challenges include: Massive payloads : Reactors aren't light—they require heavy-lift launch vehicles : Reactors aren't light—they require heavy-lift launch vehicles Regulatory approval : Launching nuclear material involves layers of red tape : Launching nuclear material involves layers of red tape Budget uncertainty : NASA faces proposed cuts of 25%, including 50% to science programs : NASA faces proposed cuts of 25%, including 50% to science programs Technology risks: Going from prototype to real deployment in 5 years is an engineering stretch Still, Duffy insists that America must lead in space power technology to stay ahead of its rivals. China has been vocal about its ambitions. Earlier this year, its state-run space agency claimed it had developed a smaller, more efficient reactor than NASA's planned design—using just 18 kilograms of uranium compared to the 70 kilograms in U.S. prototypes. Beijing has also accelerated its lunar base plans and suggested it could deploy nuclear systems to power its outposts by the early 2030s. The U.S. sees this as a clear challenge, and Duffy's announcement reflects growing pressure to counter China's space push. This isn't just another space headline. It's a signal that the U.S. is preparing to lead the next era of lunar exploration, with energy independence at its core. By fast-tracking a lunar nuclear reactor, Sean Duffy is putting NASA at the center of a global competition for off-world infrastructure. If successful, this move could lay the groundwork for everything from moon bases to Mars missions—and secure U.S. leadership in space for decades to come. Q: Is the U.S. really putting a nuclear reactor on the Moon? Yes, NASA plans to launch a nuclear reactor to power future Moon missions. Q: Who is leading NASA's new lunar nuclear project? Sean Duffy, the interim NASA chief and U.S. Transportation Secretary, is leading the effort.
Time of India
4 hours ago
- Time of India
India's expanding space sector has enough space for startups: Ex-ISRO chief
1 2 Chandigarh: Former ISRO chairman Dr S Somanath on Monday delivered a lecture at Panjab University on the future of India's space sector, highlighting new opportunities for private enterprise, startups, and academia under the Indian Space Policy 2023. Speaking at the PU Law Auditorium as part of the PU Colloquium Series, Dr Somanath said India is transitioning from a government-dominated space model to a stakeholder-based ecosystem. He stressed the need for universities to play an active role in building a self-sustaining space research and industrial framework. Now the Vikram Sarabhai Distinguished Professor and President-elect of the Aeronautical Society of India, Dr Somanath spoke on upcoming missions to Mars and Venus, development of reusable launch vehicles, and the planned Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS) by 2035. He said India aims to achieve a permanent human presence in space by 2047. He also spoke about satellite technologies being used in crop monitoring, insurance, irrigation planning, and disaster management. Tools such as Krishi-DSS and SASYA, along with platforms like Bhuvan, are helping farmers and state agencies improve planning and productivity. The talk was attended by students, researchers, and faculty members. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Is AI the secret to mastering a new language faster than ever? See why experts are buzzing. Talkpal AI Undo PU Vice Chancellor Professor Renu Vig presided over the event, which also saw the presence of Dean University Instructions Prof Yojna Rawat, Registrar Prof Y P Verma, R&D Cell Director Prof Meenkashi Goyal, and Colloquium Coordinator Prof Desh Deepak Singh. Dr Somanath said India's space growth is no longer limited to launch pads or satellites but now includes business models, private innovation, and global collaboration. Conferred honorary degree by PEC Former ISRO chairman Dr S Somanath was conferred the honorary degree of Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) by Punjab Engineering College (Deemed to be University), Chandigarh, on Monday. The felicitation ceremony was presided over by PEC Board of Governors Chairman Rajinder Gupta and Director Prof. Rajesh Kumar Bhatia. Dr. Somanath also unveiled a commemorative plaque in honour of aerospace pioneer and PEC alumnus Satish Dhawan. Addressing faculty, students, and invited guests, he spoke of Dhawan's contributions to India's space programme and recalled their time working together during key PSLV missions. In his address, Dr. Somanath stressed the importance of stronger collaboration between academia and industry to foster innovation and convert research into national assets. He also discussed India's ongoing efforts toward developing a human spaceflight programme. Among those present were Panjab University Vice Chancellor Prof. Renu Vig, former PU VC Prof. A.K. Grover, INSA Emeritus Professor Dr. K.P. Singh, and other senior faculty members. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Prof. Uma Batra.
Indian Express
6 hours ago
- Indian Express
Bharatiya Antariksh Station in orbit; indigenous missions exploring Moon, Mars: Former ISRO chief lists nation's scientific priorities
Highlighting the country's transformational journey in space under the 2023 Indian Space Policy, which opened the door to foreign direct investment and strengthened support for non-governmental entities, former ISRO chairman and renowned space scientist Dr S Somanath on Monday delivered a lecture as part of the the Panjab University's (PU's) Colloquium Series. Somanath, currently serving as Vikram Sarabhai Distinguished Professor and President-elect of the Aeronautical Society of India (ASI), addressed the talk titled 'Space Sector in India: Opportunities for Business and Startups,' which focused on the growth of the country's space sector, the role of private enterprises, and the future of space entrepreneurship in the country. PU Vice-Chancellor (V-C) Renu Vig presided over the colloquium. In his lecture, the former ISRO chief spoke about the strategic and scientific priorities of India's future in space, including Mars and Venus missions, reusable launch vehicles, and the planned Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS) by 2035. 'Landing at the moon is not a pipe dream for India; we are working on it. By 2047, India aims to have a permanent human presence in space, a Bharatiya Antariksh Station in orbit, and indigenous missions exploring the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We're not just following global trends — we're shaping them, with reusable launchers, electric propulsion, and quantum-secure space communications,' he added. Somanath called on universities to actively participate in building a self-sustaining space research and industrial ecosystem. Referring to various problems being faced by farmers, the scientist showcased how satellite-based technologies are now transforming farming. He spoke about ISRO's remote sensing applications for crop insurance, yield estimation, and smart irrigation planning. Tools like the Krishi Decision Support System (Krishi-DSS), SASYA automated crop classification using RISAT-1A data, and agrometeorological products derived from INSAT-3DR are already supporting lakhs of farmers across India. These technologies have been integrated into schemes like PMFBY (Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana) for efficient claim assessment and smart sampling. Somanath also highlighted the role of satellite data in tropical cyclone monitoring and prediction, forest fire alerts, and disaster management. Platforms such as Bhuvan, the Indian Geo-Platform of ISRO, are providing web-based geospatial services for agriculture, forestry, disaster response, and governance, benefitting states like Punjab and Haryana. These innovations, he emphasised, can help farmers improve productivity, reduce risk, access timely information, and make evidence-based decisions. The scientist noted that India's shift from a government-funded model to a stakeholder-based space ecosystem has triggered a wave of innovation, with private satellite manufacturers, small launch vehicle developers, and data service providers gaining momentum. This expanding ecosystem, he argued, is expected to generate significant socio-economic benefits, job creation, and global market participation.
