SOURCE: AFI
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is gearing up for the launch of the NISAR (NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar) satellite, a collaborative project with NASA. According to ISRO chief S. Somanath, the satellite will be a game-changer in monitoring tectonic movements with exceptional accuracy.
The launch, initially planned for July 2024, may be pushed back to October-November due to technical considerations on the U.S. spacecraft side. However, the potential benefits of NISAR remain significant.
One of the most remarkable capabilities of NISAR is its ability to track tectonic plate movements with centimeter-level accuracy. This level of precision will provide invaluable data for understanding geological processes, predicting earthquakes, and mitigating risks associated with them.
NISAR’s functionalities extend far beyond tectonic monitoring. The satellite will be able to comprehensively map the Earth twice a month, offering insights into various aspects of our planet. Here’s a glimpse of its other applications:
- Water Resource Management: NISAR can precisely measure water bodies, helping us monitor water availability and manage this crucial resource effectively.
- Environmental Monitoring: The satellite will track changes in vegetation cover, snowpack, and desertification, providing critical data for environmental monitoring and climate change studies.
- Agriculture : By monitoring agricultural patterns and crop yields, NISAR can contribute to advancements in agricultural practices.