GSLV-F16 Launch: ISRO-NASA NISAR Satellite in Orbit

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) achieved a significant milestone on Wednesday as Chairman V Narayanan announced the successful deployment of the GSLV F16 rocket, which precisely injected the NASA-ISRO NISAR satellite into its intended orbit. Weighing 2,393 kg, the satellite was placed into a Sun-Synchronous Polar Orbit (SSPO) at the scheduled time.

This event marked the 102nd launch of ISRO's operations, stemming from 18 GSLV missions. The successful placement highlights the collaborative efforts between ISRO and NASA. V Narayanan praised the teams, stating, "This is the first GSLV Mission to the Sun-synchronous polar orbit." He also highlighted the importance of numerous analyses and mission simulations that paved the way for the mission's success.

The NISAR satellite will scan the globe every 12 days, offering highly detailed images for monitoring changes in sea levels, assessing natural disasters, and studying ecosystem shifts, among other scientific pursuits. The landmark collaboration between ISRO and NASA promises a myriad of scientific applications, with the global community eagerly anticipating the data.

(With inputs from agencies.)