7.5.2.3. Satellite Communication

Satellites are mode of communication in themselves as well as they regulate the use of other means of communication. However, use of satellite in getting a continuous and synoptic view of larger area has made satellite communication very vital for the country due to the economic and strategic reasons.

Satellite communication refers to the use of satellites to send and receive signals, which allows different types of communication. Satellites can view large areas continuously, making them crucial for both economic purposes, like business communications, and strategic uses, such as national security.

Think of a satellite as a giant eye in the sky that watches over vast areas of land. Just like how a hawk can see everything below it and spot changes instantly, satellites help us keep track of earth's weather patterns, monitor environmental disasters, and support military operations by providing real-time information.

Satellite images can be used for the weather forecast, monitoring of natural calamities, surveillance of border areas, etc.

Satellites capture images of the Earth that can be used for various applications. For example, they help in predicting weather by observing cloud patterns, track natural disasters like hurricanes or floods for timely alerts, and aid in surveillance to monitor border areas for security.

Imagine using a smartphone to check the weather before planning a picnic. Similarly, meteorologists use satellite images to predict weather patterns, ensuring people are prepared for storms just like ensuring you're ready to bring an umbrella if rain is forecasted.

On the basis of configuration and purposes, satellite system in India can be operational with the launching of IRS-IA in March 1988 from Vaikanour in Russia. India has also developed her own Launching Vehicle PSLV (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle). These satellites collect data in several spectral bands and transmit them to the ground stations for various uses.

India has developed advanced satellite systems, including the IRS (Indian Remote Sensing) satellites, which are crucial for collecting various types of data. The PSLV is India's rocket that puts these satellites into space. This data is vital for agriculture, urban planning, and managing natural resources as it helps visualize land use, crop health, and changes in the environment.

Think of the PSLV as a delivery truck. Just as a truck delivers goods to stores, the PSLV delivers satellites into space. Once in orbit, these satellites act like delivery robots that continuously gather and send back vital information about our planet directly to scientists and policymakers.

The National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) at Hyderabad provides facilities for acquisition of data and its processing. These are very useful in the management of natural resources.

The NRSC plays a key role in managing satellite data by processing the information collected by satellites. This data can be used to monitor natural resources like forests, water bodies, and agricultural lands to ensure they are used sustainably and effectively.

Just as a chef needs to chop vegetables before cooking, the NRSC processes raw satellite data into usable information. By analyzing effects on forests or water bodies, it helps the government and environmentalists make informed decisions for conservation.

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