SOURCE: AFI
The much-anticipated launch of the NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) satellite is experiencing a delay. Initially planned for an early 2024 launch, the mission will now likely lift off no earlier than late May.
This shift comes despite the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) confirming that the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) intended for the NISAR mission is on schedule for completion by March-April. However, final testing and integration of the sophisticated radar instrument on the satellite itself are taking longer than anticipated.
This delay offers valuable time for engineers to ensure the complete functionality of NISAR before its critical journey into space. The mission holds immense potential for studying Earth’s ecosystems, ice masses, and landforms, and a thorough testing phase is crucial for its success.
While the wait is extended, the scientific community eagerly awaits the launch of NISAR. The groundbreaking data it collects will provide unprecedented insights into Earth’s changing landscapes and support critical efforts in environmental monitoring and disaster management.