INSAT–3A

INSAT–3A, the third satellite in INSAT–3 series is a multipurpose satellite for providing telecommunications, television broadcasting, meteorological and search and rescue services. It carries twenty four transponders – twelve operating in the normal C – band frequency, six in extended C band and six in Ku–band. INSAT–3A also carries a Ku–band beacon.

For Meteorological observation, INSAT–3A carries a three channel Very High Resolution Radiometer (VHRR). In addition, INSAT–3A carries a Charge Coupled Device (CCD) camera which operates in the visible and short wave infrared bands providing a spatial resolution of 1 km.

A Data Relay Transponder (DRT) operating in UHF band is incorporated for real time hydro meteorological data collection from unattended located on land and river basins. The data is then relayed in extended C–band to a central location.

INSAT–3A also carries another transponder for Satellite Aided Search and rescue (SA&R) as part of India’s contribution to the international Satellite Aided Search Programme.

Mission	Telecommunication, broadcasting and Meteorology
Spacecraft Mass	2,950 Kg (Mass at Lift–off) 1,348 Kg (Dry mass)
Onboard power	3,100 W
Stabilization	3 – axis body stabilised in orbit using momentum and reaction wheels, solar flaps, magnetic torquers and eight 10 N and eight 22 N reaction control thrusters
Propulsion	440 N Liquid Apogee Motor with MON-3 (Mixed Oxides of Nitrogen) and MMH (Mono Methyl Hydrazine) for orbit raising
Payload	Communication payload - 12 C – band transponders, - 6 upper extended C band transponders - 6 Ku band transponders - 1 Satellite Aided Search & Rescue transponders Meteorological payload - Very High Resolution Radiometer (VHRR) with 2 km resolution in visible band and 8 km resolution in infrared and water vapour band - Charged Coupled Device (CCD) camera operating in visible, near infrared and shortwave infrared band with 1 km resolution. - Data Relay Transponders (DRT)
Launch date	April 10, 2003
Launch site	French Guyana
Launch vehicle	Ariane5-V160
Orbit	Geostationary (93.5o E longitude)
Mission life	12 Years