The PSLV-C56 rocket is configured in its ‘core alone’ mode (meaning to fly without any strap-on boosters) similar to the PSLV-C55 mission. It will launch the DS-SAR satellite into a near-equatorial orbit at an altitude of 535 kilometres (height above Earth’s surface) and an inclination of 5 degrees (angle of the orbit relative to the equator). The DS-SAR satellite weighs 360 kilograms. All About the DS-SAR Satellite: The DS-SAR satellite was developed jointly by ST Engineering and the Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA) of the Singapore Government. DSTA is responsible for the Government’s research and development in the field of defence technology, while ST Engineering is a leading defence and engineering company in Singapore. The DS-SAR satellite will be used by the Government of Singapore and ST Engineering after it is deployed and operational. The DS-SAR will provide ST Engineering’s commercial customers with multi-modal and higher- responsive imagery and geospatial services and Government with satellite imagery. Multi-Modal, Higher Responsive: The satellite can collect different types of imagery, such as radar and optical imagery.

 

This allows ST Engineering to provide its customers with a wider range of information. The satellite can also provide imagery more quickly than other satellites, which is important for customers who need imagery to make quick decisions. The products and services that ST Engineering provides to its customers using the satellite imagery can be used for a variety of purposes, such as monitoring natural disasters, tracking shipping traffic and planning infrastructure projects. Payload to Be Carried by DS-SAR: Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has developed a Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) payload that the DS-SAR satellite will carry. This payload allows the satellite to collect images of Earth in all-weather conditions, day or night. The SAR payload can also image Earth at a resolution of 1 metre, which is very high. This means that the satellite can create very detailed images of Earth’s surface. And the Co-Passengers Are: 1.

 

The VELOX-AM microsatellite is a 23-kilogram technology demonstration satellite that will be launched alongside the DS-SAR satellite. It will be used to demonstrate new technologies for microsatellites, such as new propulsion systems and new ways to communicate with Earth. 2. Atmospheric Coupling and Dynamics Explorer (ARCADE) is an experimental satellite that will be used to study the atmosphere and its interactions with the ionosphere. The satellite will carry a variety of instruments to measure the composition, temperature and dynamics of the atmosphere. The data collected by ARCADE will help scientists to better understand how the atmosphere works and how it is affected by changes in the ionosphere. 3. SCOOB-II is a 3U (3 Units) nanosatellite, which means it is a small satellite that is about the size of a shoebox. SCOOB-II is carrying a technology demonstrator payload, which means it is carrying equipment that is being tested for the first time in space. The payload on SCOOB-II is a solar spectral sensor that will be used to study the Sun.

 

The data collected by SCOOB-II will help scientists to better understand the Sun and its effects on Earth’s climate. 4. NuLIoN is a 3U nanosatellite developed by NuSpace that will enable seamless Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity in both urban and remote locations. IoT is a network of devices that can connect to the Internet and communicate with each other. NuLIoN will use a combination of technologies to provide reliable and affordable IoT connectivity, including a high-performance antenna, a powerful processor and a long-life battery. NuLIoN will be a valuable tool for businesses and organizations that need to connect IoT devices in remote, or challenging, environments. 5. Galassia-2 is a 3U nanosatellite that will be orbiting at Low Earth Orbit (LEO). LEO is the region in space that is about 160-2,000 kilometres (100-1,200 miles) above Earth. Galassia-2 will be used to study Earth’s atmosphere and collect data on climate change. The satellite will also be used to test new technologies for nanosatellites. 6. The ORB-12 STRIDER satellite is developed by a collaboration between two companies, Aliena and OrbAstro. Aliena is a satellite propulsion provider from Singapore, while OrbAstro is a satellite and on-orbit service provider from the US. The ORB-12 STRIDER satellite will be used to test a new type of propulsion system for satellites. (The author of this article is a Defence, Aerospace & Political analyst based in Bengaluru)