RAS question
INSAT-3DS launched in 2024 is dedicated to:
Correct answer: (B) Meteorological observation.
INSAT-3DS, launched by GSLV-F14 on 17 February 2024, is dedicated to meteorological observation for weather forecasting and disaster warning.
Explanation
INSAT-3DS is not a general-purpose satellite; ISRO describes it as a follow-on third-generation meteorological satellite from geostationary orbit. Launched by GSLV-F14 on 17 February 2024, it is designed for enhanced meteorological observations and for monitoring land and ocean surfaces to support weather forecasting and disaster warning. It carries an Imager, a Sounder and a Data Relay Transponder, and it strengthens IMD capabilities such as forecasting, cyclone tracking and disaster warnings. It also augments the already operational INSAT-3D and INSAT-3DR satellites, which is why the best answer is meteorological observation.
Why the other options are wrong
- (A) Defence is not the role identified for INSAT-3DS; GSAT-7 is associated with defence use.
- (C) Navigation is not the INSAT-3DS mission area; NavIC is the navigation system.
- (D) Communication is too broad and does not match the Indian Space Research Organisation mission purpose; the GSAT series is associated with that role.
Concept
This tests the Science and Technology syllabus area on Indian space applications, especially matching major ISRO satellites with their functional domains. It recurs in RAS because recent launches often appear as direct current-affairs questions tied to governance, weather services and disaster management.