COVID-19 Lockdown Leads To The Postponing Of GISAT-1 Launch

In just over a month, ISRO has pushed back the launch of the GISAT-1, an earth observation satellite again. PTI reports that it is the COVID-19 lockdown that has led to this decision. This is not a suitable time for such launch since it normally requires 1,000 people to handle various aspects.

The launch was rescheduled following the initial postponement back in March. However, ISRO never made an announcement about the official launching date. Originally, the satellite was scheduled to be launched together with the GSLV-F10 from Sriharikota-based Satish Dhawan Space Centre on March 5. But because of technical reasons, ISRO decided to reschedule the launch.

ISRO hasn’t issued an official statement about this yet, however, sources state that the space agency hasn’t selected a new fresh date for the launch.

The weight of the GISAT-1 is around 2,275. Its lifespan is seven years. The satellite will allow for the Indian subcontinent’s real-time observation at frequent intervals under cloud-free conditions. With the GISAT-1, the government, as well as the relief agencies, can monitor regions that are struck by natural disasters while keeping an eye on borders’ security.

Besides the 700mm Ritchey-Chretien telescope, the satellite will be equipped with a hyper- and multi-spectral imagery for data collection and earth observation along with a high-resolution camera. The satellite will receive special signatures of forestry, agriculture, disaster warning, mineralogy, snow, cloud properties, oceanography, and glaciers.

>>> Technical Issues Force ISRO To Postpone GISAT-1 Launch