Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has recently successfully launched Earth Observation Satellite (EOS-08).
The satellite was launched by Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV)-D3 from Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota under SSLV-D3/EOS-08 mission.
The aim of this mission is to observe the Earth and provide critical data for various applications.
Mission: SSLV-D3/EOS-08
Launch Site: Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota
Rocket: Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV)-D3
Orbit: Low Earth Orbit (LEO)
What are Earth Observation Satellites (EOS)?
Earth Observation Satellites (EOS) are designed for remote sensing.
These satellites are used to track various aspects of the Earth and collect important data.
EOS satellites were earlier part of the Indian Remote Sensing (IRS) satellites, which have now been incorporated into the integrated EOS series.
Major objectives of Earth Observation (EO)
Monitoring natural and anthropogenic activities
Recording changes on Earth, such as natural disasters, deforestation, and climate change.
Study of physical, chemical, biological, and human systems
Observation of the Earth's surface, atmosphere, oceans, and biodiversity.
Monitoring pollution and other human impacts.
Defence and strategic uses
Monitoring borders and providing accurate geospatial information to security agencies.
Acting as surveillance satellites.
Applications and Benefits of EOS-08
Early Warning System
EOS-08 will help in forecasting disasters and analyzing their intensity, thereby detecting disasters like floods, cyclones, earthquakes and forest fires.
Environmental Monitoring
Monitoring pollution levels and studying its effects.
Monitoring marine activities and coastal erosion.
Protecting forest resources and tracking changes in vegetation coverage.
Agriculture and Climate Change Studies
Analysis of crop conditions and assessment of water resources.
Help in increasing agricultural production and combating climate change.
Urban Planning and Infrastructure Development
Help in planning smart city projects and land use.
Traffic management and monitoring of urban development.
National Security and Defence
Help in ensuring and monitoring security of borders.
Supporting role in military operations and disaster management.
SSLV-D3 Mission: An Important Step
EOS-08 was launched through SSLV-D3 (Small Satellite Launch Vehicle - D3).
SSLV has been developed by ISRO specifically to launch small satellites at low cost.
Features of SSLV-D3:
Capability to quickly launch small and medium satellites.
Low cost and greater flexibility.
Suitable for a variety of missions, especially commercial satellite launches.