1. NASA and ISRO collaborate on the NISAR mission, launching an Earth observation satellite in early 2024.
2. The three-year mission aims to survey Earth’s land and ice-covered surfaces every 12 days.
3. NISAR will provide unprecedented insights into natural phenomena, including forests, wetlands, glaciers, and more.
New Delhi, Nov 17: NASA and ISRO have joined forces for a groundbreaking Earth observation mission named NISAR (NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar), set to launch a satellite in early 2024. Spanning three years, the mission’s objective is to survey the entire land and ice-covered surfaces of Earth every 12 days, commencing after a 90-day satellite commissioning period.
NISAR, a Low Earth Orbit observatory, is a collaborative effort between NASA and ISRO, anticipated to launch from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota via ISRO’s GSLV Mark-II launch vehicle. Weighing approximately 2,800 kg, the SUV-sized satellite will be equipped with two solar arrays generating around four kilowatts of power.
The mission is poised to provide unparalleled insights into various natural phenomena, including changes in forests, wetlands, glaciers, volcanoes, earthquakes, and more. The primary goals of NISAR include comprehending the dynamics of carbon storage and uptake in ecosystems like wooded areas, agriculture, wetlands, and permafrost. Additionally, it aims to investigate the response of ice sheets to climate change, the interplay between sea ice and climate, and the global impacts on sea level rise.
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The NISAR mission leverages synthetic aperture radar technology, offering high-resolution images and precise data on Earth’s diverse landscapes. The frequent revisits to each location, with a 12-day interval, will contribute to a comprehensive understanding of dynamic changes occurring across the planet.
With NASA and ISRO combining their expertise and resources, NISAR represents a significant step forward in global Earth observation capabilities. This collaborative venture is expected to enhance our understanding of the Earth’s complex systems, informing critical decisions related to climate change, environmental conservation, and sustainable development.
