Daily Current Affairs : 6-September-2023
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) continues to reach new heights in the field of space exploration. One of its remarkable achievements is the successful execution of the second earth-bound maneuver of the Aditya L-1 mission, aimed at studying the sun. Behind this feat lies the crucial role played by the ISRO Telemetry, Tracking, and Command Network (ISTRAC) based in Bengaluru. In this essay, we will delve into the significance of ISTRAC, its mission, and the extensive network of ground stations it operates both within India and across the globe.
Understanding ISTRAC
The ISRO’s Global Network
The ISRO has painstakingly built a global network of ground stations designed to provide Telemetry, Tracking, and Command (TTC) support for satellite and launch vehicle missions. This network is none other than ISTRAC. With its headquarters located in Bangalore, ISTRAC serves as the backbone for ISRO’s space missions, ensuring their success.
The Mission of ISTRAC
Tracking and Commanding
One of the primary functions of ISTRAC is tracking and commanding spacecraft and satellites. This involves maintaining constant communication with these space missions, ensuring they follow their designated paths and perform their intended tasks.
Data Acquisition and Health Analysis
ISTRAC plays a vital role in acquiring housekeeping data from the spacecraft. This data is crucial for monitoring the health of the satellite and making necessary adjustments to maintain its operational efficiency.
Orbit and Attitude Determination
Additionally, ISTRAC aids in determining the precise orbit and attitude of satellites. This information is essential for accurate positioning and navigation in space.
Network Coordination
Coordinating a multitude of ground stations and satellite missions is no small feat. ISTRAC acts as the central hub for ensuring smooth communication and collaboration between different teams involved in space missions.
Support for Launch Vehicle Missions
Not limited to satellite missions, ISTRAC also provides telemetry data acquisition support for ISRO’s launch vehicle missions. It plays a crucial role in tracking these vehicles as they soar into space, ensuring their payloads reach the intended orbits.
Extensive Ground Stations
In India
ISTRAC’s reach extends across India with ground stations strategically located in Hyderabad, Bangalore, Lucknow, Port Blair, Sriharikota, and Thiruvananthapuram. These stations form the backbone of ISRO’s domestic operations.
Across the Globe
ISTAC’s global presence is equally impressive, with ground stations in Port Louis, Mauritius; Bear Lakes, Russia; Biak, Indonesia; Brunei; Svalbard, Norway; Troll, Antarctica; Vietnam; Gatun Lake, Panama; and São Tomé and Príncipe, West Africa. This extensive network ensures that ISRO can maintain communication with its missions even when they are far from home soil.
Important Points:
- ISTRAC is the backbone of ISRO’s space missions.
- It provides Telemetry, Tracking, and Command (TTC) support for satellite and launch vehicle missions.
- ISTRAC’s headquarters is located in Bangalore, India.
- Its mission includes tracking and commanding spacecraft, data acquisition, health analysis, and network coordination.
- ISTRAC aids in determining satellite orbits and attitudes.
- It supports ISRO’s launch vehicle missions by providing telemetry data acquisition.
- ISTRAC operates ground stations in key locations across India, including Hyderabad, Bangalore, and Sriharikota.
- Globally, ISTRAC has ground stations in places like Russia, Indonesia, Norway, Antarctica, Panama, and West Africa.
- The success of the Aditya L-1 mission’s earth-bound maneuvers highlights ISTRAC’s vital role.
- ISTRAC’s extensive network ensures continuous communication with satellites and missions, even beyond Indian borders.
- It contributes significantly to India’s achievements in space exploration and scientific advancement.
Why In News
The ISRO Telemetry, Tracking, and Command Network (ISTRAC) in Bengaluru has celebrated a triumphant success as they flawlessly executed the second earth-bound maneuver for the Aditya L-1 mission, dedicated to the study of our sun. This remarkable achievement underscores India’s prowess in space exploration and brings us one step closer to unraveling the mysteries of our solar system’s most vital star.
MCQs about ISTRAC
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What is the primary mission of ISRO’s Telemetry, Tracking, and Command Network (ISTRAC)?
A. Launching satellites into orbit
B. Providing TTC support for space missions
C. Conducting scientific experiments in space
D. Developing spacecraft technology
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Where is the headquarters of ISTRAC located?
A. Hyderabad
B. Lucknow
C. Bangalore
D. Sriharikota
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What is the role of ISTRAC in ISRO’s launch vehicle missions?
A. Conducting scientific experiments
B. Providing weather forecasts
C. Tracking launch vehicles and acquiring telemetry data
D. Analyzing satellite images
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How does ISTRAC ensure communication with missions beyond Indian borders?
A. By launching additional satellites
B. By using advanced satellite communication technology
C. By establishing ground stations in different countries
D. By collaborating with international space agencies
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