Points to Remember:
- GSAT-6A’s primary function.
- ISRO’s role in satellite technology.
- Applications of geostationary satellites.
Introduction:
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launched the geostationary satellite GSAT-6A on March 29, 2018. Geostationary satellites are positioned at a fixed point above the Earth’s equator, providing continuous coverage of a specific region. This makes them particularly useful for communication and other applications requiring constant monitoring. Understanding the specific capabilities of GSAT-6A requires examining its design and stated objectives. The question requires a factual approach to determine the primary use of GSAT-6A.
Body:
GSAT-6A’s Primary Function:
GSAT-6A’s main purpose is (A) Communication. While it might have secondary applications in other areas, its core design and payload are optimized for communication purposes. It carries a large number of Ku-band transponders, which are specifically designed for high-bandwidth communication applications. These transponders enable the satellite to relay large amounts of data, making it suitable for various communication services.
Other Potential Applications:
While communication is the primary function, geostationary satellites like GSAT-6A can have secondary applications. Let’s examine the other options:
(B) Agriculture mapping: While satellite imagery can be used for agriculture mapping, GSAT-6A’s design isn’t specifically optimized for this. High-resolution imagery from other satellites is generally more suitable for detailed agricultural assessments.
(C) Remote sensing: Remote sensing involves acquiring information about the Earth’s surface from a distance. GSAT-6A could contribute to remote sensing data, but its primary focus isn’t on this. Other satellites with specialized sensors are better suited for detailed remote sensing applications.
(D) Surveillance: Geostationary satellites can be used for surveillance, but GSAT-6A’s design and capabilities are not primarily geared towards this. Surveillance often requires higher resolution imagery and specialized sensors, which GSAT-6A doesn’t possess.
Conclusion:
In summary, while GSAT-6A might have some secondary applications in areas like agriculture mapping or remote sensing, its primary function, as indicated by its design and payload, is communication. Its large number of Ku-band transponders are specifically designed for high-bandwidth communication services. Therefore, the correct answer is (A). ISRO’s continued development and launch of communication satellites highlight India’s commitment to strengthening its communication infrastructure and bridging the digital divide. This focus on communication technology contributes to holistic national development and fosters economic growth, aligning with the nation’s broader developmental goals.
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