GISAT-1 is the first of two earth observation satellites of India (launch postponed), it can also provide ballistic missile early-warning. GISAT-1 will carry a high-resolution camera. The imaging payload consists of multi-spectral (visible, near infra-red and thermal), multi-resolution from 40 metres to 1.5km. This means that GISAT-1 will be able to send a selected sector-wise image every 5 minutes and an image of the entire Indian landmass every 30 minutes at 50-metre spatial resolution.
The geo imaging satellite will help keep a check on natural hazards and disasters, keep a constant watch on the border areas, and monitor any geographical changes. It will be able to carry out rapid surveillance. It will rotate the earth and return the same spot every two hours and when needed, it can spend a longer time on certain areas.
The GISAT-1 has a lifespan of 7 years, weighs 2,275kg, and the main equipment it is carrying is the multi- and hyper-spectral imager along with the 700mm Ritchey-Chretien telescope to carry out its function of earth observation and data collection. The GISAT-1’s mission payload comprises:
700mm Ritchey-Chretien telescope based on the design of Cartosat 2.
Array detectors in VNIR, SWIR and LWIR bands.
High-resolution multi-spectral VNIR (HRMX-VNIR): 50-metre resolution.
High-resolution multi-spectral (HRMX-LWIR): 1.5km resolution.
Hyper-spectral VNIR: 320-metre and 192-metre resolution.
Hyper-spectral SWIR: 320-metre and 192-metre resolution.
Data handling system and camera electronics.
Transmit antenna system which is electronically steerable.
High agility platform to enable large payload steering requirements.