ISRO Indian National Satellite-3DS Mission Overview – Timeline, Progress & Scientific Aims

India’s space programme, led by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), has evolved from modest beginnings into one of the most respected space agencies in the world. Over the years, ISRO has designed and executed a range of missions—from satellite navigation, Earth observation, interplanetary exploration, to solar studies—that have not only enhanced India’s technological self-reliance but also contributed to global scientific collaboration. Its cost-effective approaches and mission diversity—from Chandrayaan and Mangalyaan to Aditya-L1 and the upcoming Gaganyaan—have become case studies in innovation.

For UPSC aspirants, ISROs journey is more than current affairs—it directly intersects with the syllabus of General Studies Paper 3 (Science & Technology), provides examples for GS Paper 2 (International Relations, Governance), and can enrich perspectives in the Essay Paper, Ethics, and even Optional subjects like Geography or PSIR. In this article, we will explore detailed insights about ISRO Indian National Satellite-3DS Mission —its objectives, timelines, key technologies, and strategic implications.

ISRO Indian National Satellite-3DS Mission Overview

Indian National Satellite-3DS was designed and executed with the primary aim of supporting advancements in Meteorological, Disaster Management.ISRO selected Geostationary Orbit as the functional environment for the Indian National Satellite-3DS mission.

• The launch of Indian National Satellite-3DS was carried out by the GSLV-F14.
• All pre-launch procedures were conducted at Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota.
• ISRO developed Indian National Satellite-3DS with the core goal of Enhanced meteorological observations, climate monitoring.
• Indian National Satellite-3DS was further expected to aid in Land/ocean surface monitoring, disaster warning dissemination.
• Official sources have listed the mission status as Operational.

Indian National Satellite-3DS Space Mission Overview for UPSC
Mission Name	Indian National Satellite-3DS
Mission Abbreviation	INSAT-3DS
Mission Type	Meteorological, Disaster Management
Target Celestial Body or Orbit	Geostationary Orbit
Primary Objective	Enhanced meteorological observations, climate monitoring
Secondary Objectives	Land/ocean surface monitoring, disaster warning dissemination
Mission Status	Operational

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Timeline & Milestones of ISRO Indian National Satellite-3DS Mission

• Indian National Satellite-3DS was launched on February 17, 2024.

Timeline & Milestones
Proposal Date	N/A
Critical Design Review (CDR) Date	N/A
Assembly Complete Date	N/A
Launch Date	February 17, 2024
Landing / Flyby Date	N/A
End of Primary Mission Date	N/A

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ISRO Indian National Satellite-3DS Mission Technical Specifications

Key subsystems and architecture of Indian National Satellite-3DS were built around 2274 kg lift-off mass.The mission trajectory for INSAT-3DS was designed around Geostationary Orbit, aligned with its objectives.

• The payload configuration of Indian National Satellite-3DS featured 6-channel Imager, 19-channel Sounder, DRT, SAS&R transponder, tailored to meet mission-specific technical requirements.
• The mission adopted Advanced Imager and Sounder instruments to meet its operational and scientific requirements.

Technical Specifications
Spacecraft Technical Specifications	2274 kg lift-off mass
Scientific Payloads	6-channel Imager, 19-channel Sounder, DRT, SAS&R transponder
Orbit Details	Geostationary Orbit
Communication Frequencies / Band	N/A
Key Technologies Used	Advanced Imager and Sounder instruments

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Indian National Satellite-3DS Launch Information

• The launch of Indian National Satellite-3DS took place on February 17, 2024.
• Indian National Satellite-3DS lifted off using the GSLV-F14.
• Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota was the designated launch complex for this mission.

Launch Information
Launch Vehicle	GSLV-F14
Launch Site	Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota

Who are the Stakeholders & Collaborators?

The agencies supporting the mission include ISRO, Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES).

• The payload configuration of Indian National Satellite-3DS reflects joint inputs from ISRO and Funded by MoES.

Stakeholders & Collaboration
Agencies Involved	ISRO, Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES)
Commercial Partners	N/A
International Partners	N/A
Payload Contributions by Partners	Funded by MoES
Data Sharing Policy	N/A

Outputs, Applications & Impact of ISRO Indian National Satellite-3DS Mission

Among the outcomes of INSAT-3DS, Continuity of meteorological services from INSAT series stands out.Indian National Satellite-3DS generated data outputs including Weather forecasting, climate research, disaster alerts.

• Strengthens national weather forecasting capabilities is among the noted policy-level implications of Indian National Satellite-3DS.
• The mission included basic compliance and awareness steps regarding Aids environmental monitoring and disaster response.
• Improved weather forecasting, disaster warning, search and rescue represents one area where mission data finds regular use.
• Indian National Satellite-3DS holds strategic value as it aligns with national goals such as Enhances national meteorological services, societal benefits.
• Post-mission phases for Indian National Satellite-3DS may involve scaling up efforts through advanced programs such as Successor to INSAT-3D and INSAT-3DR, ensuring service continuity, ensuring sustained benefits and impact.

Outputs, Applications & Impact of Indian National Satellite-3DS Mission
Data Outputs and Applications	Weather forecasting, climate research, disaster alerts
Major Achievements	Continuity of meteorological services from INSAT series
Applications in Civilian Life	Improved weather forecasting, disaster warning, search and rescue
Impact on Policy & Global Collaboration	Strengthens national weather forecasting capabilities
Environmental Impact & Sustainability	Aids environmental monitoring and disaster response
Strategic Significance & Policy Alignment	Enhances national meteorological services, societal benefits
Follow-up Missions or Extensions	Successor to INSAT-3D and INSAT-3DR, ensuring service continuity
Cost Estimate	N/A

ISRO Indian National Satellite-3DS Space Mission Risks, Failures & Mitigation

Risks, Failures & Mitigation
Challenges Faced	N/A
Risk Mitigation Measures	N/A
Failures or Anomalies	N/A
Corrective Actions Taken	N/A
Lessons Learned	N/A

UPSC Relevance of ISRO Indian National Satellite-3DS Space Mission

• The UPSC Prelims aspirants benefit from tracking ISRO developments, as topics like launch vehicles, mission objectives, and payload types are common in factual and concept-based questions.
• ISRO missions are highly relevant to UPSC Mains, particularly in GS Paper III, where candidates must understand the role of space technology in development, disaster management, communication, and governance.
• UPSC Essays focused on resilience, long-term vision, or Indias journey in science and technology can be powerfully anchored in examples like Chandrayaan-2’s setback and the recovery through Chandrayaan-3.
• Optional subjects like Political Science can reference ISRO to highlight the role of strategic autonomy and scientific sovereignty in shaping foreign policy.

Past UPSC Mains PYQs on ISRO Space Missions

Q1. Discuss the role of the private sector in the growth of the space industry in India. How has the governments policy of 2023 affected it? (2023, GS Paper 3 - Science & Technology)

Q2. What is India’s plan to have its own space station and how will it benefit our space programme? (2022 & 2019, GS Paper 3 - Science & Technology)

Q3. Space has been the next big frontier for mankind after sea and land. In this context, discuss Indias policy and preparedness for space wars. (2019, GS Paper 3 - Science & Technology)

Q4. Discuss the utility of the Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM) for India. (2016, GS Paper 3 - Science & Technology)

Q5. What do you understand by Standard Positioning Systems and Precision Positioning Systems in the GPS era? Discuss the advantages India perceives from its ambitious IRNSS programme employing just seven satellites. (2015, GS Paper 3 - Science & Technology)

Past UPSC Prelims PYQs on ISRO Space Missions

Q1 [2025]: GPS-Aided Geo Augmented Navigation (GAGAN) uses a system of ground stations to provide necessary augmentation. Which of the following statements is/are correct in respect of GAGAN?

I. It is designed to provide additional accuracy and integrity.
II. It will allow more uniform and high quality air traffic management.
III. It will provide benefits only in aviation but not in other modes of transportation.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

(a) I, II and III
(b) II and III only
(c) I only
(d) I and II only

Correct Answer: (d) I and II only

Explanation: Statements I and II correctly describe the core purpose and benefit of the GAGAN system. (I) GAGAN is designed to augment GPS signals by correcting for errors, which provides much greater accuracy and guarantees the integrity (reliability) of the positioning information. (II) This enhanced accuracy and reliability directly enables more precise aircraft routing and landing procedures, thus improving the uniformity and quality of air traffic management.

Q2 [2022]: If a major solar storm (solar flare) reaches the Earth, which of the following are the possible effects on the Earth?

1. GPS and navigation systems could fail.
2. Tsunamis could occur at equatorial regions.
3. Power grids could be damaged.
4. Intense auroras could occur over much of the Earth.
5. Forest fires could take place over much of the planet.
6. Orbits of the satellites could be disturbed.
7. Shortwave radio communication of the aircraft flying over polar regions could be interrupted.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1, 2, 4 and 5 only
(b) 2, 3, 5, 6 and 7 only
(c) 1, 3, 4, 6 and 7 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7

Answer: The correct answer is (c).

Explanation: A major solar storm can disrupt GPS, power grids, satellite orbits, polar radio communication, and cause auroras, but cannot trigger tsunamis or forest fires.

Q3 [2020]: The experiment will employ a trio of spacecraft flying in formation in the shape of an equilateral triangle that has sides one million kilometres long, with lasers shining between the craft.” The experiment in question refers to

(a) Voyager-2
(b) New horizons
(c) Lisa Pathfinder
(d) Evolved LISA

Answer: The correct answer is (d) Evolved LISA.

Explanation: Evolved LISA (Laser Interferometer Space Antenna) is a planned space-based gravitational wave observatory by ESA and NASA, using three spacecraft in a triangular formation with laser beams to detect cosmic gravitational waves.

Q4 [2016]: Consider the following statements:

The Mangalyaan launched by ISRO

1. is also called the Mars Orbiter Mission
2. made India the second country to have a spacecraft orbit the Mars after USA
3. made India the only country to be successful in making its spacecraft orbit the Mars in its very first attempt

Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: c) 1 and 3 only

Explanation: Mangalyaan is the informal name of Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM), launched by ISRO on 5 November 2013 and India is the only nation to date to have succeeded on its maiden attempt.

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UPSC Practice Questions on ISRO Space Missions

Q1. In ISRO project Chandrayaan-3, what is the name of half-humanoid robot for artificial intelligence?
1. Vyom - chitra
2. Vyom - putra
3. Vyom - pitra
4. Vyommitra
Answer: Vyommitra
Solution: Vyommitra is the name of the half-humanoid robot developed by ISRO for the Chandrayaan-3 project. Vyommitra is designed to simulate human functions in space, providing data and feedback on various conditions and experiments during the mission. This half-humanoid robot can perform multiple tasks, including operating equipment, and will help in enhancing the efficiency of the mission. Vyommitra is part of ISRO's efforts to advance in space exploration and technology, focusing on safety and reducing the risks associated with human space travel.

Q2. Recently, which mission received the 2024 John L. Jack Swigert Jr. Award for space exploration?
1. Chandrayaan-3 Mission
2. Mars Orbiter Mission
3. Gaganyaan Mission
4. Chandrayaan-2 Mission
Answer: Chandrayaan-3 Mission
Solution: Chandrayaan-3 Mission received the 2024 John L. Jack Swigert Jr. Award for space exploration. The award is presented by the Space Foundation to recognize extraordinary accomplishments in the field of space exploration. Chandrayaan-3 is a mission by the Indian Space Research Organisation ISRO aimed at landing on the moon. It follows the Chandrayaan-2 Mission and aims to demonstrate end-to-end capability in safe landing and roving on the lunar surface. The mission includes a lander and a rover but does not have an orbiter, as the Chandrayaan-2 orbiter is still functioning and can relay data to Earth.

Q3. Indian Space Research Organisation ISRO has successfully carried out the static test of which solid rocket booster, which is human rated version of the S 200 rocket booster of the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle MkIII?
1. HS200
2. LS200
3. NS400
4. KS400
Answer: HS200
Solution: HS200 is the human-rated version of the S200 solid rocket booster used in the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle MkIII GSLV MkIII, which is now also called LVM3. This booster is specially designed for the Gaganyaan mission, India's first human spaceflight program. The static test of HS200 was successfully conducted by the Indian Space Research Organisation ISRO to validate its performance and ensure safety for human-rated missions. The HS200 has a diameter of 3.2 meters, a length of 20 meters, and uses 200 tons of solid propellant, making it one of the largest boosters built by ISRO. Its development marks a critical step toward ensuring the reliability and safety of the Gaganyaan mission, which aims to send Indian astronauts Gagannauts into space.

Q4. The NEEMO program, which conducts analog space missions in underwater environments, is an initiative of which country?
1. Japan
2. Russia
3. Germany
4. United States
Answer: United States
Solution: NEEMO NASA Extreme Environment Mission Operations is a program run by the United States. It is conducted by NASA in underwater habitats to simulate space mission conditions, providing astronauts with experience in extreme and isolated environments similar to space. ISRO has launched India's first analog space mission in Leh Ladakh to plan lunar mission experiments. It has been developed by joint collaboration of ISRO's Human Spaceflight Center, AAKA space studio, university of Ladakh and IIT Bombay. Analog space missions are field tests done in locations that have physical similarities to that of the extreme space environments. It may include testing of new technologies, robotic systems, vehicles, study of behavioral effects isolation and confinement.

Q5. What is the name of the satellite launched into space by ISRO recently for observing the sun?
1. Aditya-L1
2. Aditya-M1
3. Chandrayaan-3
4. EOS-7
Answer: Aditya-L1
Solution: The Indian Space Research Organisation ISRO recently launched Aditya-L1, India's first space-based mission dedicated to studying the Sun. The spacecraft was launched on September 2, 2023, aboard the PSLV-C57 rocket from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. Aditya-L1 is positioned in a halo orbit around the Lagrange point 1 L1 of the Sun-Earth system, approximately 1.5 million kilometers from Earth. This strategic location allows continuous observation of the Sun without any occultation or eclipses, providing real-time data on solar activities and their effects on space weather. The mission carries seven payloads designed to study various aspects of the Sun, including the photosphere, chromosphere, and the outermost layers, the corona. These instruments will help in understanding solar phenomena such as solar flares, coronal mass ejections, and their impact on the Earth's climate and environment. Aditya-L1 marks a significant milestone in India's space exploration efforts, enhancing our understanding of solar dynamics and contributing valuable data to the global scientific community.

Q6. With reference to ISRO's upcoming mission Shukrayaan-I, consider the following statements:
Shukrayaan is India's first mission to Saturn to study the planet's surface and atmosphere.
The satellite is planned to be launched onboard the GSLV Mk III rocket.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
1. I only
2. II only
3. Both I and II
4. None of the above
Answer: None of the above
Solution: Shukrayaan-I is not India's first mission to Saturn, but rather a mission to Venus. The primary objective of Shukrayaan-I is to study the surface and atmosphere of Venus, not Saturn. Shukrayaan-I is indeed planned to be launched onboard the GSLV Mk III rocket.

Q7. What is the name of the first mapping satellite of India?
1. EDUSAT
2. CARTOSAT-I
3. ARYABHATTA
4. APOLLO-9
Answer: CARTOSAT-I
Solution: CARTOSAT-I was the first Indian satellite dedicated to cartographic applications and mapping purposes. It was launched by the Indian Space Research Organisation ISRO on May 5, 2005, using the PSLV-C6 launch vehicle from the Sriharikota spaceport. The satellite was equipped with two panchromatic cameras that provided stereo imaging, which was instrumental in creating 3D terrain models and detailed maps. CARTOSAT-I was primarily used for urban and rural development planning, infrastructure management, land use mapping, and disaster management support.

Q8. In 2024, India unveiled four Air Force pilots shortlisted for its maiden Gaganyaan mission. What is the primary objective of the mission?
1. To land on the Moon
2. To send a satellite into orbit
3. To send astronauts into space and bring them back
4. To establish a space station
Answer: To send astronauts into space and bring them back
Solution: Gaganyaan is India's first human spaceflight mission. The mission aims to send astronauts into space and bring them back safely. It is being developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation ISRO. Four Indian Air Force pilots have been shortlisted for the mission. The mission is expected to enhance India's capabilities in human spaceflight.

Q9. Which of the following statements regarding Satellites launched by ISRO is/are correct?
1. CMS-01 is a Communication Satellite.
2. GAST-6A is a Earth Observation Satellite.
3. Mission EOS-03 was Unsuccessful.
4. INS-1C is a Navigation Satellite.
1. Only 1
2. Only 2
3. Only 1 and 3
4. Only 2 and 4
Answer: Only 1 and 3
Solution: CMS-01 is a communication satellite launched by ISRO. CMS-01 is designed to provide extended coverage for communication services, particularly in the Indian mainland and islands. Mission EOS-03 aimed at Earth observation was unsuccessful. The failure was attributed to a technical anomaly that resulted in the satellite not reaching its planned orbit. GAST-6A is not an Earth Observation Satellite. It is a communication satellite launched by ISRO to improve communication capabilities. INS-1C is not a Navigation Satellite. It is a small satellite developed by ISRO for carrying payloads and conducting experiments in space.

Q10. Indian Space Research Organization, formed in the year
1. 1962
2. 1960
3. 1969
4. 1966
Answer: 1969
Solution: The Indian Space Research Organization ISRO was founded on August 15, 1969. ISRO was established under the leadership of Dr. Vikram Sarabhai, regarded as the father of the Indian space program. The organization was formed to harness space technology for national development while pursuing space science research and planetary exploration. ISRO replaced the Indian National Committee for Space Research INCOSPAR, which was established in 1962.

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