ISRO to soon launch Gaganyaan-tracking data relay satellite

ISRO to soon launch Gaganyaan-tracking data relay satellite

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will soon launch a data relay satellite that will enable the space agency to maintain contact with the Gaganyaan mission throughout the launch, reports PTI citing sources.

The satellite is said to take flight during the final leg of the Gaganyaan mission, which aims to send astronauts to the Lower Earth Orbit (LEO). The initial leg of the unmanned mission is set to take place in December.

“We’re planning to launch our own satellite, which will act as a data relay satellite before going for the first human space flight,” sources quoted by PTI. The project will cost Rs. 800 crores and the work has already begun, sources added.

Why data relay satellites are important?

Satellites in the orbit require a clear view of the ground station on Earth to beam back information. A data relay satellite makes sure that the satellite’s information is passed along to the ground stations without any delay.

NASA also has the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite, enabling the space agency to have global coverage of all the satellites without having to set up extra ground stations on Earth. ISRO currently has several ground stations set up across the world including Mauritius, Brunei, and Biak, Indonesia.

ISRO joins forces with other space agencies

Recently, ISRO Chairperson K Sivan said that the space agency is in talks with the Australian space agency to build a ground station at the Coco islands for its Gaganyaan mission. However, there’s a possibility of signal interruption due to blind spots. The data relay satellite will allow ISRO to tackle this issue.

Moreover, ISRO has also signed an agreement with the French space agency. This move will allow Indian flight physicians to train for the Gaganyaan mission at CNES facilities. Besides, the agreement will also enable Indian crews to access CNES-developed Frenc equipment aboard the ISS. The French space agency will also provide fireproof carry bags to protect equipment from shock and radiation.

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