India Completes Historic Satellite Launch

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<b>India Completes Historic Satellite Launch </b><br /><br />LINK<br /><br />It was a historic day for India's space programme. <br /><br />When the launch vehicle PSLV C6 lifted off from Sriharikota at 10:15 am, on board were satellites CARTOSAT 1 and riding piggyback was HAMSAT. <br /><br />The makers of CARTOSAT 1 say the satellite could propel India into a new era of environmental protection. <br /><br />City planning<br /><br />It is fitted with two panchromatic cameras, provides 3D imaging capability and has a resolution of upto 2.5 metres. Experts say it will help immensely in city planning.<br /><br />HAMSAT is India's contribution to the international community of amateur radio operators. It will facilitate low cost communication and is especially helpful during natural calamities. <br /><br />Both satellites were successfully launched from the second launch pad or SLP. It is completely indigenous with state-of-the art systems that will not become obsolete for the next two decades. <br /><br />Commercialized launches<br /><br />With an additional launch pad, India now has the opportunity to commercialize satellite launches. <br /><br />"We can handle about six launches whereas our national need comes to about three to four launches a year at best. So the remaining is the capacity available for any potential commercialisation," said G Madhavan Nair, Chairman, ISRO.<br /><br />With the successful inauguration of the second launch pad, India will now have no constraints on the number of launches it performs in one year. <br /><br />The SLP or the second launch pad is a backup to the first one, reduces turn-around time and has been built keeping in mind the requirement for future heavier satellites.