G20 Satellite: ISRO Targets 2027 Launch for Earth Observation
Why in the news
ISRO’s head announced a 2027 target for a global-good Earth observation satellite that India first proposed during its G20 chairmanship.
Key facts
- Announced by: ISRO Chairman Dr. V. Narayanan, at the Engineering Staff College of India, Hyderabad, on April 18, 2026.
- Launch target: 2027.
- Origin: proposed by PM Modi during India’s G20 Presidency.
- Orbit: Sun-Synchronous Polar Orbit, about 720 km, inclination 98.269 degrees.
- Revisit: same spot every 48 days, useful for long-term comparison.
| Instrument | Purpose |
|---|---|
| EnSAC | Measures harmful trace gases such as CO2 and CH4 |
| HyMATHS | Temperature and humidity profiles for better local forecasts |
| POLSAC | Aerosols, dust and clouds; links air quality to monsoon and rainfall |
| SACFF | Land and forest imaging; early forest fire detection |
Key concepts
- Sun-synchronous orbit: the satellite crosses any place at the same local solar time each day, so lighting stays constant for fair comparisons.
- Space diplomacy: using space programmes to improve ties; India positions itself as a provider of global public goods by sharing data.
- Disaster monitoring: can follow cyclones, floods, locust swarms and forest fires, giving early warning to G20 members.
Exam angle
- Launch year: 2027.
- Instrument names: EnSAC, HyMATHS, POLSAC, SACFF.
- Orbit type: Sun-synchronous polar.