27714 - INSAT 3A

INSAT 3A is an Indian (ISRO) geostationary communications and weather-monitoring satellite that was launched by an Ariane 5 rocket from Kourou at 22:52 UT on 2003 April 9. The 3-ton satellite carries 12 C-band, 6 Extended C-band, and 6 Ku-band transponders to provide voice, video, and data transmission to West Asia, East Asia, and India after parking over 93.5 degrees E longitude. INSAT 3A also carries the usual INSAT package of sensors in visual, infrared, and water vapor bands to monitor clouds and storms. The spatial resolution at visual wavelengths is 2 km, and at infrared 1 km. The satellite also carries a separate transponder for the international search and rescue program.

Facts in Brief

Launch Date: 2003-04-09
Launch Vehicle: Ariane 5
Launch Site: Kourou, French Guiana