10 lesser-known Indian satellites

SARAL, launched in 2013, is a joint Indo-French satellite mission for oceanographic studies, particularly sea surface heights and ocean circulation.

A satellite is a human-made object that orbits Earth or other celestial bodies, serving various purposes such as communication, navigation, Earth observation, or scientific research. Satellites transmit data between different altitudes and ground stations to fulfill their designated functions.

The Radar Imaging Satellite (RISAT) series comprises satellites designed for all-weather, day and night Earth observation. Utilising synthetic aperture radar (SAR) technology, these satellites provide high-resolution images for tasks like monitoring agriculture and disaster response, as well as surveillance operations.

The Indian National Satellite (INSAT) system includes a constellation of multipurpose geostationary satellites used for telecommunication, broadcasting, meteorology, and search and rescue operations. While some satellites in this series are well-known, others serve diverse purposes.

The Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS), known as NavIC, is India's regional satellite system providing accurate position information within and around the region.

Surprisingly, satellites like those in the Cartosat series contribute to urban planning, infrastructure development, and natural resource management. Equipped with high-resolution cameras, they capture detailed images for these purposes.

The GSAT series consists of communication satellites augmenting India's telecommunications infrastructure, providing services such as TV broadcasting, internet, and telecom links.

Named after former Indian president Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, Kalamsat was a student-built satellite launched by the Indian Space Research Organisation in 2019. It served as a technology demonstrator mission, marking the first Indian student-built satellite.

Rukmini, a part of the GSAT-7 constellation, is a military satellite known for its capabilities in locating enemies. It provides secure communication for the Indian Navy, enhancing maritime domain awareness and network-centric operations.

Launched in 2015, Astrosat is India's first dedicated multi-wavelength space observatory. It observes celestial sources across X-rays, UV rays, and optical wavelengths, enabling astronomers to study various astrophysical phenomena.

Launched in 2011, Resourcesat-2 is an advanced remote sensing satellite used for resource monitoring, land use mapping, and agricultural applications.