PM Modi hails ‘Drishti’ satellite as India advances space power
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the team at the Bengaluru-based startup GalaxEye on the success of the 'Drishti' mission, hailing it as a major milestone in India's space journey. He stated that this is the world's first OptoSAR satellite and serves as a testament to the innovative capabilities of the country's youth.
On Sunday, this satellite-named 'Drishti'-was launched from California, USA, aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. Developed by GalaxEye, it is India's largest privately built Earth observation satellite to date.
Suyash Singh, CEO of GalaxEye, explained that 'Drishti' translates to the ability to see under any circumstances. This satellite simultaneously utilizes a multispectral camera and Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR)-a feat being achieved for the first time globally.
Key Features of the 'Drishti' Satellite
This satellite is capable of capturing clear images of the Earth even through clouds, in darkness, and during adverse weather conditions. Typically, optical satellites are rendered ineffective by cloud cover; however, SAR technology functions effectively in all weather conditions.
In a tropical nation like India-where skies are frequently overcast-this technology is considered to be immensely valuable. According to a study, approximately 70 percent of the Earth's surface remains perpetually covered by clouds, thereby hindering standard satellite imaging operations. By integrating these two technologies, 'Drishti' will deliver more precise and actionable imagery, ensuring that users have access to reliable data at all times.
Major Applications in Defense and Disaster Management
This satellite is poised to provide significant assistance in sectors such as border surveillance, defense operations, disaster management, agriculture, infrastructure development, and insurance. Had this capability existed previously, India would not have had to rely on foreign satellites for imagery related to its military operations.
Recent global conflicts have also underscored the critical necessity for nations to possess their own independent satellite data capabilities. This satellite weighs approximately 190 kilograms and is capable of delivering high-resolution images with a resolution of up to 1.5 meters. There are plans to further enhance its capabilities to 0.5 meters in the future.
Plans for Additional Satellites
'Drishti' is not merely a single satellite, but rather the inception of a larger constellation. The company plans to launch between 8 and 12 satellites over the next four years. This initiative also incorporates Artificial Intelligence technology, enabling the satellites to process data autonomously while in orbit and provide actionable information with greater speed.
