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Good News

ISRO Successfully Launches INSAT-3DS, India's Advanced Weather Satellite from Sriharikota

The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) has achieved another significant milestone with the successful launch of INSAT-3DS, India's advanced weather satellite. The satellite was launched from the Sriharikota spaceport and is expected to enhance the country's meteorological observations and weather forecasting capabilities. Launching INSAT-3DS: ISRO's INSAT-3DS was launched onboard a Geosynchronous Launch Vehicle (GSLV) rocket from Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. This successful launch marks the 16th mission of the GSLV rocket. The INSAT-3DS satellite is designed to provide crucial meteorological data and maintain the continuity of services offered by the current operational INSAT-3D and INSAT-3DR satellites. Enhancing Meteorological Observations: INSAT-3DS is equipped with a 6-channel Imager and a 19-channel Sounder, dedicated to advanced meteorological observations. These payloads will enable the satellite to monitor Earth's surface, observe oceans, and analyze the environment through various essential meteorological perspectives. The satellite aims to provide accurate information on diverse atmospheric conditions through vertical profiles, thereby improving weather forecasting accuracy. Data Collection and Dissemination: One of the key objectives of INSAT-3DS is to manage data collection and dissemination from Data Collection Platforms (DCPs). The satellite's Data Relay Transponder (DRT) receives data from automatic Data Collection Platforms and Automatic Weather Stations, enhancing the capabilities of weather forecasting systems. This improved data collection will contribute to more accurate predictions and timely disaster warnings. Satellite Aided Search and Rescue Services: In addition to meteorological observations, INSAT-3DS will also provide Satellite Aided Search and Rescue (SAS&R) services. The SAS&R transponder on the satellite will play a vital role in relaying distress signals and alert detections from beacon transmitters, contributing to global search and rescue operations. Future Missions: ISRO chairman, S Somanath, confirmed that the organization's joint mission with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) named NISAR is on schedule. NISAR is an Earth-observing mission that utilizes advanced radar technology to observe a broad spectrum of changes on the planet's surface. This collaborative mission between ISRO and NASA aims to enhance global observational capabilities and gather valuable data for research and analysis. Implications for Weather Forecasting: The successful launch of INSAT-3DS holds significant implications for India's weather forecasting capabilities. With advanced meteorological observations and improved data collection and dissemination, the satellite is expected to enhance the accuracy and timeliness of weather forecasts. This will result in better preparedness for severe weather events, early warning systems for disasters, and improved resource planning in various sectors, including agriculture, aviation, and infrastructure development. As ISRO continues to push the boundaries of technological advancements, India's space program is poised for further growth and contributions to scientific research and national development.

19 Feb 2024
Good News

This Revolutionary Device Keeps Fishermen Safe and Guides Them Towards Their Catch

Fishermen can soon use technology to their advantage as GEMINI(Gagan Enabled Mariners Instrument for Navigation and Information) was launched in Mumbai by the Hyderabad based Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services(INCOIS) along with the Airports Authority of India. The device will facilitate safer and easier expeditions for the fishermen. The fishermen will have to download the Gagan app on their mobile phones and it will be connected to GEMINI via Bluetooth. Its inbuilt rechargeable battery lasts for 3-4 days and it covers the entire Indian Ocean for transmission to fishermen at sea. Revolutionary Device GEMINI provides information to fishermen on potential fishing zones and gives alerts on high waves and strong winds. It gives warning about cyclones and tsunamis as well as provides information on search and rescue.  Fishermen can also know the maximum current speed, depth of the sea, distance and direction with the help of the device. In case of any emergency, fishermen can bank on GEMINI as it suggests the nearest land points. Technology GEMINI uses surface temperature and water’s chlorophyll content to locate fish schools. It detects weather conditions and sends the information to the app. Fishermen can use their phones to see the forecast of fishing zones which is sent three days in advance. They can also see the weather alerts that are sent in an hour. The Ockhi cyclone of 2017 brought to fore the limitations of the marine information systems as fishermen in deep-sea couldn’t be reached and therefore, they weren’t warned about the cyclone. The low cost, soapbox sized smart receiver device GEMINI will ensure safe expeditions for our fisherfolk.

18 Nov 2019
Good News

The Whys and Hows

Pune's Pleasant Paradise: Unraveling the Mystique of Pune's Weather in Contrast to Mumbai

When it comes to weather, the neighboring cities of Pune and Mumbai in India seem worlds apart. While Mumbai battles heat and humidity, Pune enjoys a more pleasant and moderate climate. But what factors contribute to Pune's enviable weather in contrast to the bustling metropolis of Mumbai? One significant factor is Pune's geographical location. Situated at a higher altitude than Mumbai, Pune benefits from its proximity to the Western Ghats mountain range. The Ghats act as a natural barrier, shielding Pune from the direct impact of the Arabian Sea's moisture-laden winds. As a result, Pune experiences milder temperatures and lower humidity levels. Another contributing factor is Pune's inland location. Unlike Mumbai, which is a coastal city, Pune is situated further away from the sea. Coastal areas tend to experience more humidity due to the presence of water bodies. Pune's inland location allows for better air circulation and reduced levels of moisture in the atmosphere. The topography of the two cities also plays a role in their contrasting weather patterns. Pune is characterized by rolling hills and a relatively flat terrain, allowing for better air movement and ventilation. On the other hand, Mumbai's landscape is dominated by high-rise buildings and a denser urban environment, which can trap heat and hinder air circulation. Additionally, Pune's proximity to green spaces and abundant natural surroundings contributes to its pleasant climate. The city is known for its numerous parks, gardens, and hills, which help in maintaining cooler temperatures and providing a respite from the scorching heat. These green oases act as natural air purifiers and create microclimates that enhance Pune's overall weather experience. Furthermore, Pune's relatively smaller population compared to Mumbai plays a role in the city's favorable climate. The reduced population density results in fewer heat-trapping structures and less heat emitted from human activities, contributing to a cooler and more comfortable environment. While Pune's weather may seem idyllic, it is not without its seasonal variations. The city experiences distinct seasons, including a hot summer, a monsoon season characterized by moderate to heavy rainfall, a pleasant autumn, and a cool winter. These seasonal changes add to the diversity and charm of Pune's climate. The disparity in weather between Pune and Mumbai has also contributed to Pune's emergence as a popular getaway destination for Mumbaikars seeking respite from the city's heat and humidity. Pune's cooler climate, picturesque surroundings, and abundance of hill stations in the vicinity make it an attractive retreat for weekend trips and vacations.

12 Sep 2023
The Whys and Hows

Positive Reads

Clouds on the Scale: Discovering the Surprising Weight of Our Fluffy Friends

Have you ever wondered how much a cloud weighs? It's a question that seems almost impossible to answer, but scientists have been able to come up with an estimate. Clouds are made of water vapor, which is a gas, so they don't have a specific weight like solids or liquids. However, scientists have come up with a way to estimate the weight of a cloud by calculating the weight of the water droplets that make it up. According to the National Severe Storms Laboratory, an average cumulus cloud, which is the type of cloud that looks like a fluffy cotton ball, can weigh anywhere from 100,000 to 200,000 pounds. That's the equivalent of 50 to 100 elephants! Of course, the weight of a cloud can vary depending on its size and the amount of water vapor it contains. A larger cumulonimbus cloud, which is the type of cloud that produces thunderstorms, can weigh as much as 1 million pounds or more. While the weight of a cloud may seem like a trivial fact, it actually has important implications for weather forecasting and aviation. Knowing the weight of a cloud can help meteorologists predict how much precipitation it will produce and how it will affect weather patterns. Additionally, pilots need to be aware of the weight of clouds when flying through them, as they can cause turbulence and other hazards.

15 Apr 2023
Positive Reads

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