ISRO to Launch US Communications Satellite Bluebird

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to make history by launching an American communications satellite. This is the first time an American company is using an Indian rocket for such a large and advanced satellite. The mission is expected to occur in February or March 2025.

Background of the Mission

Historically, ISRO has focused on launching small satellites from American manufacturers. The upcoming launch will be the first instance of a massive communications satellite being deployed by a US company from Indian soil. This initiative reflects the growing partnership between India and the United States in the field of space technology.

The Role of AST SpaceMobile

AST SpaceMobile, a Texas-based company, is expected to be the manufacturer of the satellite. The company has developed technology that allows users to make voice calls using standard smartphones. Unlike other satellite communication providers, AST SpaceMobile does not require users to purchase special handsets or terminals, making it more accessible to the general public.

Technical Specifications of the Satellite

• The satellite in question is the Bluebird satellite, which will be launched into low Earth orbit using ISRO’s Geo-synchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV).
• It will feature a large 64 square-meter antenna, approximately half the size of a football field.
• The satellite is projected to weigh around 6,000 kg, showcasing its capability to handle substantial data transmission.

Implications for Mobile Communication

This satellite aims to revolutionise mobile communication by enabling direct voice calls from space. It eliminates the need for special setups, unlike other systems like Starlink. Users will benefit from enhanced connectivity, especially in remote areas where traditional mobile networks may be unreliable. The technology promises to bridge the communication gap and provide broadband internet access globally. It aims to make 5G broadband affordable and accessible in underserved and remote areas. It will support critical services such as education, healthcare, social networking, and promote economic opportunities.

Key Facts About 

• GSLVGeosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle is designed to place communication satellites into Geostationary Transfer Orbit (GTO) using a cryogenic third stage for higher thrust.
• Significance: GSLV is a medium-lift launch vehicle and marks India’s move toward self-reliance in launching heavy satellites for communication, meteorology, and strategic purposes.
• It played a key role in major missions like Chandrayaan-2.

Historical Development:

• 1990: ISRO began developing GSLV to achieve sovereign satellite launch capability.
• 2000: First experimental flight carrying GSAT-1 failed due to cryogenic stage limitations.
• 2014: First successful flight with an indigenous cryogenic upper stage launched GSAT-14 (GSLV-D5).
• Since 2017: Achieved 6 consecutive successful flights, establishing reliability.

Variants of GSLV:

GSLV Mk I:

• Used Russian cryogenic upper stage due to early challenges in developing indigenous technology.
• Payload capacity: 2–2.5 tons to GTO.
• Operated from 2001–2010 with 5 flights.

GSLV Mk II:

• Features indigenous cryogenic engine.
• Payload capacity: 2.5 tons to GTO.
• First successful launch: 2014 (GSAT-14).

GSLV Mk III (LVM-3):

• Most advanced variant with a payload capacity of 4 tons to GTO.
• Used for significant missions like Chandrayaan-2 and future human spaceflight missions.

Key Features of Cryogenic Engines:

Uses Liquid Hydrogen (LH2) and Liquid Oxygen (LOX) for greater thrust.
Enables heavier payloads in higher orbits, vital for communication satellites.

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Advancements in India’s Smart Cities Mission

Recent studies by IIM Bangalore highlight the Smart Cities Mission in India has led to improvements in education and safety, as well as the impact of urban initiatives across various cities. The findings are part of the SAAR – Sameeksha series, which assesses urban project outcomes.

Enhancements in Education

The education study revealed that 71 smart cities implemented 9,433 smart classrooms in 2,398 government schools. This initiative resulted in a 22% increase in student enrolment from 2015-16 to 2023-24. Economically weaker sections benefited the most from these developments. Cities like Ajmer, New Delhi Municipal Council, and Tumakuru demonstrated increased attendance and improved learning experiences. Additionally, digital libraries were established in 41 cities, accommodating 7,809 students. These libraries serve as vital resources for competitive exam preparation. Teachers, particularly in senior secondary education, reported increased comfort in using smart classroom technology.

Urban Safety Improvements

The urban safety study focused on women’s safety through real-time monitoring. Over 59,802 CCTV cameras and emergency call boxes were installed in 93 smart cities. These systems are connected to Integrated Command and Control Centers (ICCCs). Cities such as Chennai, Nagpur, and Tumakuru showed remarkable improvements in safety. Nagpur experienced a 14% reduction in crime rates. Women in these areas reported feeling more secure in public spaces. Advanced monitoring systems and evidence-based policing have effectively reduced harassment and crime in regions with enhanced safety measures.

SAAR Platform and Future Policies

The SAAR platform, launched in 2022, connects academic research with government initiatives. It has involved 29 leading institutions, including IIMs and IITs, in completing 50 impact assessments. The insights gained are expected to influence future urban development strategies .

Overview of the Smart Cities Mission

Launched in 2015, the Smart Cities Mission aims to enhance infrastructure and improve quality of life. By November 2024, 91% of its projects were completed, showcasing innovative and replicable models for urban development.

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ISRO’s 100th Mission Announced

ISRO concluded 2024 with the successful launch of its 99th mission, PSLV-C60. This mission included two experimental projects, SpaDex and POEM-4. As these experiments progress into 2025, ISRO has announced that its first mission of the year will mark milestone – the 100th mission.

Details of the 100th Mission

The 100th mission will be conducted using the GSLV Mk-II rocket. ISRO Chairman S. Somanath confirmed that this mission is scheduled for January 2025. The specific launch date remains undisclosed. The mission will be designated GSLV-F15/NVS-02 and aims to enhance India’s navigation satellite system.

Objectives of the GSLV-F15/NVS-02 Mission

This mission will be the 17th flight of the GSLV and the 8th operational flight featuring India’s indigenous Cryogenic stage. Key objectives include supporting precision military operations, aiding strategic applications, and enhancing navigation across various domains such as terrestrial, aerial, and maritime.

Significance of the NVS-02 / IRNSS-1K Satellite

NVS-02 will be the second satellite in the second generation of India’s Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC). It will feature two types of payloads – navigation and ranging. The navigation payload will transmit signals using L1, L5, and S bands. An atomic clock, typically a Rubidium clock, will ensure precise timekeeping. The ranging payload will include a transponder that sends time-stamped navigation signals to ground receivers. This system will provide accurate position, speed, and time data, ensuring reliable service regardless of weather conditions.

Enhanced Security and Future Prospects

The second-generation NavIC satellites will incorporate advanced encryption for secure communications. Currently, NavIC remains a regional system, but there are plans for potential global coverage in the future.

What is NavIC?

Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC) is India’s indigenous regional satellite navigation system, developed by ISRO. It was formerly known as the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS).

• It provides precise positioning, navigation, and timing services across India and surrounding regions.
• The system is interoperable with other global navigation systems like GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and BeiDou. This enhances its reliability and utility across various applications.

Need for NavIC

National Security: It provides India with an independent and secure navigation system, reducing reliance on foreign systems (like GPS) that may be restricted during crises.

• Enhanced Regional Navigation: It offers tailored accuracy for South Asia, unlike global systems that have broader coverage.
• Civilian Use: It supports applications like agriculture, transportation, and disaster management.

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