INSAT-3DR is an Indian meteorological satellite launched on 8 September 2016 by GSLV-F05. It operates in geostationary orbit and supplies real-time meteorological, disaster‑management and search‑and‑rescue data for India and adjoining regions.
Key Technical Features
- Multispectral Imager: 6-channel imager providing half‑hourly multispectral images over the Indian region.
- Atmospheric Sounder: 19‑channel sounder for vertical temperature and humidity profiling; became primary source after INSAT‑3D sounder ceased in Sep 2020.
- Middle‑IR and Thermal Bands: Middle‑infrared for night‑time low cloud and fog detection; thermal IR bands for sea‑surface temperature estimation.
- Data Relay Transponder (DRT): Relays observations from remote automatic stations and buoys to ground centres.
- Search and Rescue Transponder (SART): Provides satellite-aided distress signal relay and location support.
Operational Uses
- Nowcasting: Short‑range forecasting for thunderstorms and heavy rainfall over hours.
- Cyclone Tracking: Continuous monitoring of cloud structure and movement for tropical cyclones.
- Rainfall Estimation: Satellite‑based rainfall products for monitoring monsoon systems and flood alerts.
- Ocean Monitoring: Sea‑surface temperature and cloud characterisation for coastal and fisheries applications.
IASPOINT Booster Facts
- Orbit Height: Geostationary orbit at approximately 35,786 km above mean sea level.
- Primary User: India Meteorological Department (IMD) for operational forecasting and warnings.
- INSAT Series: INSAT‑3DR is part of the INSAT‑3 series of operational meteorology satellites.
- Temporal Resolution: Imager cadence: 30 minutes; sounder delivers hourly atmospheric profiles in operational use.