ISRO and NASA Launch NISAR Satellite to Enhance Global Earth Monitoring

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully launched the NISAR satellite, a joint project with NASA, on July 27, 2023. This mission is significant as it represents the most expensive Earth observation satellite ever developed, with a budget of USD 1.5 billion. The satellite was launched from ISRO’s spaceport in Sriharikota at 17:40 local time.

Jitendra Singh, India’s Minister of Science and Technology, described NISAR as “India’s scientific handshake with the world.” He emphasized that the satellite’s data would empower policymakers globally by enhancing their capacity to address challenges posed by climate change and natural disasters.

As the first collaborative Earth observation mission between ISRO and NASA, NISAR marks a pivotal moment in Indo-US space cooperation, reflecting a broader commitment to international scientific collaboration. Singh remarked that the mission aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi‘s vision of India as a “Vishwa Bandhu,” a global partner committed to the greater good of humanity.

The NISAR satellite combines advanced technologies from both agencies. NASA has provided the L-Band Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), a high-rate telecommunication subsystem, GPS receivers, and a deployable 12-meter unfurlable antenna. In turn, ISRO has contributed the S-Band SAR payload, the spacecraft bus to accommodate both payloads, and the GSLV Mk-II launch vehicle, along with all necessary launch services.

Global Impact of NISAR’s Data

The satellite weighs 2,392 kg and will operate in a sun-synchronous orbit, enabling it to capture images of the Earth’s land and ice surfaces every 12 days. This capability will facilitate continuous monitoring of ecological disturbances and aid in assessing natural hazards such as earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, and landslides.

One of the most revolutionary aspects of the NISAR mission is its commitment to data accessibility. All data generated will be made freely available within one to two days of observation, and in near real-time during emergencies. This approach is expected to democratize access to critical information, particularly benefiting developing countries that may lack robust satellite capabilities.

Singh highlighted the diverse applications of NISAR’s data, which will assist in sea ice classification, ship detection, shoreline monitoring, storm tracking, crop mapping, and soil moisture changes. This information is essential for governments, researchers, and disaster management agencies globally.

The successful launch of NISAR not only enhances India’s scientific stature but also strengthens its collaborative efforts with leading space-faring nations. As the world grapples with the impacts of climate change and natural disasters, the insights provided by NISAR are poised to play a crucial role in shaping effective responses and fostering international cooperation in Earth observation and environmental management.