The Union Minister of Science & Technology recently announced the upcoming launch, in the second quarter of 2022, of the EOS (Earth Observation Satellite)-02 satellite. The launch was postponed due to the pandemic and subsequent lockdown; this delay followed the successful placement of the Indian Space Research Organisation’s earth observation satellite EOS-04 and two small satellites (INSPIREsat-1 and INSPIREsat-2TD) into their intended orbits by the PSLV (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle)-C52 rocket.
Introducing the EOS-02 Satellite
The EOS-02 is a demonstration satellite for various new technologies with applications spanning agriculture, forestry, geology, hydrology, miniaturised power electronics, and reaction wheels. It will be the payload for the SSLV (Small Satellite Launch Vehicle)-1, the smallest vehicle weighing only 110 tonnes. Distinctively, the SSLV takes only 72 hours to integrate, a significantly shorter period than the usual 70 days needed for a launch vehicle. This technological advancement aims to cater to an emerging market for the launch of small satellites into Earth’s low orbits, serving the needs of developing countries, universities dealing with small satellites, and private corporations.
Other Satellites in the EOS Series
The EOS series consists of multiple satellites each with unique features and objectives. For example, the EOS-01 is an Earth Observation satellite intended for agriculture, forestry, and disaster management support while EOS-03 is the first agile Earth Observation satellite placed in geostationary orbit for near real-time imaging and other applications. Subsequent satellites in the series, EOS-04 to EOS-06, are designed for different forms of earth observation, ranging from radar imaging to providing valuable data for ocean-related services and advisories.
Understanding Earth Observation Satellites
Earth observation satellites are equipped with remote sensing technology to collect information about Earth’s physical, chemical, and biological systems. Many are placed on sun-synchronous orbit to ensure consistent sunlight for the solar panels. Among other Earth observation satellites launched by ISRO are RESOURCESAT- 2, 2A, CARTOSAT-1, 2, 2A, 2B, RISAT-1 and 2, OCEANSAT-2, Megha-Tropiques, SARAL and SCATSAT-1, INSAT-3DR, 3D, etc.
Tests of Knowledge: The Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS)
The UPSC Civil Services Examination often includes questions related to India’s space technology. For instance, in 2018, candidates were asked about the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS). Candidates had to consider statements about the number of satellites in geostationary and geosynchronous orbits, the coverage of IRNSS, and India’s plans to have its own satellite navigation system with full global coverage by the middle of the following year. The answer was that only the first statement was correct: IRNSS is indeed an independent regional navigation satellite system being developed by India.
