<p>Japan has successfully launched a spacecraft designed to inspect and potentially remove man-made space debris from around the Earth, said a statement from Astroscale Japan on Monday.<br />
<br />
The Active Debris Removal has been launched by Astroscale-Japan (ADRAS-J). As per an AFP news agency report, it will rendezvous with and examine a Japanese H2A rocket remnant that has been in space for 15 years. The H2A rocket body, about the size of a bus, was launched by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) in 2009. Its precise location and orbital position are not known.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/a-debris-cloud-has-been-growing-in-a-distant-star-system-due-to-a-massive-collision-between-two-exoplanets-691648">Debris cloud growing in a distant star system after massive collision between two exoplanets</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Debris removal</strong></h2>

<p>Launched from New Zealand, the ADRAS-J spacecraft has already made contact and is ready to begin operations, said project manager Eijiro Atarashi in a statement.</p>

<p>Using observation data from Earth, the estimated location of the H2A rocket body will be determined, and ADRAS-J will approach it "from a safe distance" to gather images and assess its condition and movements.</p>

<p>Selected by JAXA for its debris removal programme, ADRAS-J, as per Astroscale is the first spacecraft of its kind, which aims to remove large debris of Japanese origin in collaboration with private companies.</p>

<h2><strong>Space debris</strong></h2>

<p>As per the European Space Agency (ESA) estimates, there are around one million pieces of debris larger than a centimetre in orbit. These pieces of debris, which are big enough to "disable a spacecraft" pose a big threat.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-successfully-launches-new-h3-rocket-following-setback-last-year-691091">Japan successfully launches new H3 rocket following setback last year</a></strong></p>

<p>The build-up of space debris, including used satellites and rocket parts, has been a growing concern since the space age began. Proposed solutions include using lasers to push debris into new orbits and Astroscale's space "tow-truck," which employs a magnet to collect and move out-of-service satellites.</p>

<p>The ADRAS-J mission follows Japan's successful launch of its new flagship H3 rocket on Saturday, after years of delays and previous failed attempts. Additionally, Japan achieved a successful, albeit slightly off-kilter, unmanned probe landing on the Moon last month, making it the fifth country to accomplish a "soft" lunar landing.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Japan has successfully launched a spacecraft designed to inspect and potentially remove man-made space debris from around the Earth, said a statement from Astroscale Japan on Monday.

Japan has successfully launched a spacecraft designed to inspect and potentially remove man-made space debris from around the Earth, said a statement from Astroscale Japan on Monday. The Active Debris Removal has been launched by Astroscale-Japan (ADRAS-J). As per an AFP news agency report, it will rendezvous with and examine a Japanese H2A rocket remnant that has been in space for 15 years. The H2A rocket body, about the size of a bus, was launched by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) in 2009. Its precise location and orbital position are not known. Also read | Debris cloud growing in a distant star system after massive collision between two exoplanets Debris removal Launched from New Zealand, the ADRAS-J spacecraft has already made contact and is ready to begin operations, said project manager Eijiro Atarashi in a statement. Using observation data from Earth, the estimated location of the H2A rocket body will be determined, and ADRAS-J will approach it "from a safe distance" to gather images and assess its condition and movements. Selected by JAXA for its debris removal programme, ADRAS-J, as per Astroscale is the first spacecraft of its kind, which aims to remove large debris of Japanese origin in collaboration with private companies. Space debris As per the European Space Agency (ESA) estimates, there are around one million pieces of debris larger than a centimetre in orbit. These pieces of debris, which are big enough to "disable a spacecraft" pose a big threat. Also read | Japan successfully launches new H3 rocket following setback last year The build-up of space debris, including used satellites and rocket parts, has been a growing concern since the space age began. Proposed solutions include using lasers to push debris into new orbits and Astroscale's space "tow-truck," which employs a magnet to collect and move out-of-service satellites. The ADRAS-J mission follows Japan's successful launch of its new flagship H3 rocket on Saturday, after years of delays and previous failed attempts. Additionally, Japan achieved a successful, albeit slightly off-kilter, unmanned probe landing on the Moon last month, making it the fifth country to accomplish a "soft" lunar landing. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan launches debris removal spacecraft to tackle space junk

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<p>NASA and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) are considering launching the LignoSat probe - the world's first wooden satellite&nbsp;into space, in an attempt to make spaceflight operations sustainable.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The tiny satellite has been built by the scientists at Kyoto University in collaboration with Sumitomo Forestry, a logging company.&nbsp;Scientists believe that the satellite's biodegradable nature may help preserve the Earth's environment.</p>

<p>Currently, our stratosphere is inundated with metallic particles from spacecraft, including satellites, which are majorly constructed out of aluminium.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>“All the satellites which re-enter the Earth’s atmosphere burn and create tiny alumina particles, which will float in the upper atmosphere for many years. Eventually, it will affect the environment of the Eart," said Takao Doi, a Japanese astronaut and aerospace engineer at Kyoto University.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While the long term affects of these metals is unknown at this stage, experts are of the view that it could damage Earth's fragile ozone layer. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Keeping the environment in mind, scientists have looked for alternatives with the researchers at the Japanese university stumbling upon wood which doesn't burn or rot in the vacuum of space. However, it incinerates quickly into fine ash upon reentry into Earth's atmosphere, thereby minimising damage to the environment.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gaganyaan: India's first mission to send astronauts to space</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>A reimagined future&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>To choose the right kind of wood, the scientists went through myriad timber profiles before settling on wood from magnolia trees which proved to be most robust.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After successfully testing their wood samples aboard the International Space Station (ISS) earlier this year, the scientists believe the test satellite is fit for launch.</p>

<p>It is expected that the LignoSat probe which is approximately the size of a coffee mug, will operate in space for at least six months before it is allowed to enter the upper atmosphere.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-find-a-unique-way-to-keep-spacecraft-safer-than-they-ever-were-667962"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Scientists find a 'unique' way to keep spacecraft safer than they ever were</strong></a></p>

<p>If the launch of LignoSat is indeed successful and it performs adequately in space, it could open the door for the use of wood as a construction material for more satellites.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While sci-fi movies and shows projected a future with aluminum rockets and steel skyscrapers; slick high-speed shuttles and glassy facades, it looks like we may have to re-imagine how it looks like.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


NASA and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) are considering launching the LignoSat probe - the world's first wooden satellite into space, in an attempt to make spaceflight operations sustainable.

NASA and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) are considering launching the LignoSat probe - the world's first wooden satellite into space, in an attempt to make spaceflight operations sustainable. The tiny satellite has been built by the scientists at Kyoto University in collaboration with Sumitomo Forestry, a logging company. Scientists believe that the satellite's biodegradable nature may help preserve the Earth's environment. Currently, our stratosphere is inundated with metallic particles from spacecraft, including satellites, which are majorly constructed out of aluminium. “All the satellites which re-enter the Earth’s atmosphere burn and create tiny alumina particles, which will float in the upper atmosphere for many years. Eventually, it will affect the environment of the Eart," said Takao Doi, a Japanese astronaut and aerospace engineer at Kyoto University. While the long term affects of these metals is unknown at this stage, experts are of the view that it could damage Earth's fragile ozone layer. Keeping the environment in mind, scientists have looked for alternatives with the researchers at the Japanese university stumbling upon wood which doesn't burn or rot in the vacuum of space. However, it incinerates quickly into fine ash upon reentry into Earth's atmosphere, thereby minimising damage to the environment. Watch: Gaganyaan: India's first mission to send astronauts to space A reimagined future To choose the right kind of wood, the scientists went through myriad timber profiles before settling on wood from magnolia trees which proved to be most robust. After successfully testing their wood samples aboard the International Space Station (ISS) earlier this year, the scientists believe the test satellite is fit for launch. It is expected that the LignoSat probe which is approximately the size of a coffee mug, will operate in space for at least six months before it is allowed to enter the upper atmosphere. Also read | Scientists find a 'unique' way to keep spacecraft safer than they ever were If the launch of LignoSat is indeed successful and it performs adequately in space, it could open the door for the use of wood as a construction material for more satellites. While sci-fi movies and shows projected a future with aluminum rockets and steel skyscrapers; slick high-speed shuttles and glassy facades, it looks like we may have to re-imagine how it looks like. (With inputs from agencies)

World's 1st wooden satellite to be launched soon. Why is it significant?

<p>The US has intelligence of Russian nuclear capabilities in space which could threaten satellites, a report in the New York Times has claimed. The&nbsp;intel has been briefed to Congress and key US allies with some lawmakers demanding that President Joe Biden's administration declassify the information.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Citing unnamed sources, the report claimed that Russia's potential deployment of a nuclear anti-satellite weapon in space&nbsp;could&nbsp;knock out US military&nbsp;communications and reconnaissance capabilities from above.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The threat becomes even more pertinent as Washington does not have the capability to&nbsp;counter such a weapon and defend its satellites, the report added. The US flirted with the technology but never fully deployed it while Russia has continued to develop its space-based capabilities for decades.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If Russia does indeed deploy the weapon, it might suggest President Vladimir Putin was willing to abandon the Outer Space Treaty of 1967, which bans all orbital nuclear weapons.</p>

<p>Notably, Russia exited the&nbsp;Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT), a global treaty that bans all physical testing of nuclear warheads, last year. Shortly after the exit, Moscow conducted drills, accessing its capability to stage a nuclear attack in "response to an enemy strike".&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-putin-preparing-for-a-nuclear-offensive-russias-new-nuclear-missile-can-hit-us-643476"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Putin Preparing for a Nuclear Offensive? Russia's New Nuclear Missile Can Hit US</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Turner urges Biden</strong></h2>

<p>After the intel was shared,&nbsp;head of the House Intelligence Committee, Mike Turner urged President Biden to come public with the information.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence has made available to all Members of Congress information concerning a serious national security threat," said Turner.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I am requesting that President Biden declassify all information relating to this threat so that Congress, the Administration, and our allies can openly discuss the actions necessary to respond to this threat," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shortly after, ABC News reported that the threat was associated with Russia and its intentions to place nuclear weapons in space. This action, according to the outlet's anonymous sources, wasn't intended for use against Earth but possibly for targeting satellites. The news gained traction rapidly, leading House Speaker Mike Johnson to call for restraint.</p>

<p>“There is no need for public alarm,” he told the reporters who had gathered in the Capitol.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-slams-western-hegemony-and-warns-over-nuclear-testing-says-mission-is-to-create-new-world-643050"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;'No chance of survival': Putin's latest nuclear warning has the world on edge</strong></a></p>

<p>Turner's committee voted to share the information available to all members of Congress, a move that may have alarmed some officials. According to a note served to the lawmakers, the&nbsp;House Intelligence Committee said the intelligence was about a “destabilising foreign military capability".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Amid the confusion, House of Representatives Speaker Mike Johnson said there was no need to panic over the unnamed threat. The Republican leader said he was not allowed to discuss the report but wanted to assure everyone that "steady hands" were at the wheel.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The US has intelligence of Russian nuclear capabilities in space which could threaten satellites, a report in the New York Times has claimed. The intel has been briefed to Congress and key US allies with some lawmakers demanding that President Joe Biden's administration declassify the information.

The US has intelligence of Russian nuclear capabilities in space which could threaten satellites, a report in the New York Times has claimed. The intel has been briefed to Congress and key US allies with some lawmakers demanding that President Joe Biden's administration declassify the information. Citing unnamed sources, the report claimed that Russia's potential deployment of a nuclear anti-satellite weapon in space could knock out US military communications and reconnaissance capabilities from above. The threat becomes even more pertinent as Washington does not have the capability to counter such a weapon and defend its satellites, the report added. The US flirted with the technology but never fully deployed it while Russia has continued to develop its space-based capabilities for decades. If Russia does indeed deploy the weapon, it might suggest President Vladimir Putin was willing to abandon the Outer Space Treaty of 1967, which bans all orbital nuclear weapons. Notably, Russia exited the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT), a global treaty that bans all physical testing of nuclear warheads, last year. Shortly after the exit, Moscow conducted drills, accessing its capability to stage a nuclear attack in "response to an enemy strike". Watch | Gravitas: Putin Preparing for a Nuclear Offensive? Russia's New Nuclear Missile Can Hit US × Turner urges Biden After the intel was shared, head of the House Intelligence Committee, Mike Turner urged President Biden to come public with the information. "The House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence has made available to all Members of Congress information concerning a serious national security threat," said Turner. "I am requesting that President Biden declassify all information relating to this threat so that Congress, the Administration, and our allies can openly discuss the actions necessary to respond to this threat," he added. Shortly after, ABC News reported that the threat was associated with Russia and its intentions to place nuclear weapons in space. This action, according to the outlet's anonymous sources, wasn't intended for use against Earth but possibly for targeting satellites. The news gained traction rapidly, leading House Speaker Mike Johnson to call for restraint. “There is no need for public alarm,” he told the reporters who had gathered in the Capitol. Also read | 'No chance of survival': Putin's latest nuclear warning has the world on edge Turner's committee voted to share the information available to all members of Congress, a move that may have alarmed some officials. According to a note served to the lawmakers, the House Intelligence Committee said the intelligence was about a “destabilising foreign military capability". Amid the confusion, House of Representatives Speaker Mike Johnson said there was no need to panic over the unnamed threat. The Republican leader said he was not allowed to discuss the report but wanted to assure everyone that "steady hands" were at the wheel. (With inputs from agencies)

'Satellite killer': Russia's name was not supposed to be revealed, but somebody leaked it

Tehran ramps up space missions amid concern of war spillover. The West remains critical of Iran's space missions. West fears Iran could develop long-range ballistic missile system. Watch to know more!

Iran successfully launches satellites as West criticises space project

India and France's defence ties are soaring. The two countries are inking new defence pacts. The move comes amid Macron's latest visit to India. What is the new Defence Space Agreement between India & France?

Will India & France launch military satellites with offensive & defensive capabilities?

<p>A new satellite has turned into one of the brightest things present in the night sky and has sparked concerns regarding the future of astronomy among scientists.</p>

<p>The bright paths of satellite BlueWalker 3 along with other new satellites are likely to shine as bright as the neighbouring planets in the night sky which will make it difficult for astronomers to observe the universe without streaks of light pollution from such satellites, stated a new study published in the journal <em>Nature</em>.</p>

<p>BlueWalker 3, which is a prototype communications satellite, has a 692-square-foot array which is a large flat surface like a mirror and reflects sunlight back to Earth.</p>

<p>As per the study, the magnitude of the satellite’s peak brightness is 0.4.</p>

<p>"The startling conclusion from our study is that the BlueWalker 3 satellite is one of the brightest things in the sky," said Meredith L. Rawls, co-author of the paper and astronomy research scientist in the Department of Astronomy and DiRAC at the University of Washington, while speaking to Newsweek.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/us-govt-imposes-historic-150000-space-debris-penalty-on-dish-network-642020">US govt imposes historic $150,000 space debris penalty on Dish Network</a></p>

<p>"Keep in mind, astronomers use a magnitude system, which is "backwards"—brighter objects have smaller magnitudes, so 0.4 is quite bright," explained Rawls.</p>

<p>&nbsp;"There are only about six stars that are brighter in the night sky than this. For context, the way magnitudes work is, something that is magnitude 2 is only about 40 percent as bright as something that is magnitude 1. The unaided eye can see objects down to about magnitude 7 from a very dark site. Venus' apparent magnitude in the sky is about -4 (it's extremely bright!),” she added.</p>

<h2><strong>Light pollution hindering detection of asteroids</strong></h2>

<p>A negative magnitude reflects that the object is brighter. The magnitude of the sun is &nbsp;-27, while that of the full moon is -13.</p>

<p>"While there is only one BlueWalker 3 so far, it is important to characterise its brightness and understand its impact, since many groups are planning to launch many bright satellites to LEO [low Earth orbit] in the near future," Rawls stated.</p>

<p>The problems arising from BlueWalker and other bright satellites in the night sky are because of the amount of light they are reflecting back to the ground.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: US plans to establish space hotline with China</strong></p>

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<p>In an article published on Astronomy.com, Rawls explained that the light reflected by satellites will hinder the detection of other objects, which include near-Earth asteroids, during the twilight hours.</p>

<p>"The problems here on Earth range from interference with astronomical observatories doing sky surveys to a possible interference with migrating birds being misdirected due to its appearance," said Brad Young, co-author and lead coordinator of visual observing at the International Astronomical Union Centre for the Protection of the Dark and Quiet Sky from Satellite Constellation Interference, which is based in Paris, while speaking to Newsweek.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for&nbsp;wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

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A new satellite has turned into one of the brightest things present in the night sky and has sparked concerns regarding the future of astronomy among scientists.

A new satellite has turned into one of the brightest things present in the night sky and has sparked concerns regarding the future of astronomy among scientists. The bright paths of satellite BlueWalker 3 along with other new satellites are likely to shine as bright as the neighbouring planets in the night sky which will make it difficult for astronomers to observe the universe without streaks of light pollution from such satellites, stated a new study published in the journal Nature. BlueWalker 3, which is a prototype communications satellite, has a 692-square-foot array which is a large flat surface like a mirror and reflects sunlight back to Earth. As per the study, the magnitude of the satellite’s peak brightness is 0.4. "The startling conclusion from our study is that the BlueWalker 3 satellite is one of the brightest things in the sky," said Meredith L. Rawls, co-author of the paper and astronomy research scientist in the Department of Astronomy and DiRAC at the University of Washington, while speaking to Newsweek. ALSO READ | US govt imposes historic $150,000 space debris penalty on Dish Network "Keep in mind, astronomers use a magnitude system, which is "backwards"—brighter objects have smaller magnitudes, so 0.4 is quite bright," explained Rawls. "There are only about six stars that are brighter in the night sky than this. For context, the way magnitudes work is, something that is magnitude 2 is only about 40 percent as bright as something that is magnitude 1. The unaided eye can see objects down to about magnitude 7 from a very dark site. Venus' apparent magnitude in the sky is about -4 (it's extremely bright!),” she added. Light pollution hindering detection of asteroids A negative magnitude reflects that the object is brighter. The magnitude of the sun is -27, while that of the full moon is -13. "While there is only one BlueWalker 3 so far, it is important to characterise its brightness and understand its impact, since many groups are planning to launch many bright satellites to LEO [low Earth orbit] in the near future," Rawls stated. The problems arising from BlueWalker and other bright satellites in the night sky are because of the amount of light they are reflecting back to the ground. WATCH | Gravitas: US plans to establish space hotline with China In an article published on Astronomy.com, Rawls explained that the light reflected by satellites will hinder the detection of other objects, which include near-Earth asteroids, during the twilight hours. "The problems here on Earth range from interference with astronomical observatories doing sky surveys to a possible interference with migrating birds being misdirected due to its appearance," said Brad Young, co-author and lead coordinator of visual observing at the International Astronomical Union Centre for the Protection of the Dark and Quiet Sky from Satellite Constellation Interference, which is based in Paris, while speaking to Newsweek. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Humans have done the impossible! The brightest object in the sky now is not a celestial body anymore

<p>China deployed a swarm of surveillance satellites to spy on two significant military training operations involving the United States and Australia, Australian Broadcasting Corporation reported. During the recently concluded Exercise Talisman Sabre, China is said to have deployed hundreds of its satellites over Australia to gather intelligence.</p>

<p>Among these satellites was China's Shiyan 12-01, manoeuvring strategically beneath the equator to keep a watch on the joint war games between the US and Australia. Additionally, satellites like Shijian-17 and Shijian-23 were observed moving eastward to cover various zones where the military exercises took place.</p>

<h2><strong>Vigilance over ‘Exercise Malabar’</strong></h2>

<p>In addition to spying on Exercise Talisman Sabre, China's surveillance satellites are also tracking the ongoing Exercise Malabar, a naval training programme.</p>

<p>Over 300 satellites are reportedly engaged in monitoring these activities, accumulating a total of more than 3,000 flight hours since the commencement of Exercise Malabar on August 10.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nigers-new-prime-minister-says-no-harm-will-come-to-captive-president-mohamed-bazoum-626880">Niger's new Prime Minister says no harm will come to captive President Mohamed Bazoum</a></p>

<p>According to James Bennett, an official from EOS Space Systems, who spoke with ABC, there is significant ground surveying activity by China. “We’ve been collecting optical surveillance data on Earth observing Chinese satellites during the Talisman Sabre and Malabar exercises and what that’s showing is quite a lot of activity surveying the ground during those events,” Bennett told ABC News.</p>

<h2><strong>Expanding presence in space</strong></h2>

<p>China's reported recent surge in satellite-based espionage signifies its expanding influence in space. Just this month, China successfully launched its maiden geosynchronous orbit synthetic aperture radar satellite, further cementing its position in space technology.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-bolsonaros-legal-troubles-deepen-as-quote-authorises-probe-into-his-finances-626878">Brazil: Bolsonaro's legal troubles mount as SC Justice authorises probe into his finances</a></p>

<p>US Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall reportedly said China is capable of putting "weapons in space". CEO of the Space Industry Association James Brown reportedly said,&nbsp;“It’s also about dominating space."&nbsp;<br />
<br />
“Space is often viewed as the next frontier of conflict and China is staking a claim to it early," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Has China's growth story hit a roadblock?&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Richard McGregor from the Lowy Institute told The Project,&nbsp;“It’s pretty unsurprising that China is spying on us."&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Countries like China, with the capability that they have, they use any means they have," he said and added,&nbsp;“Satellites are obviously a much better way of picking up intelligence and a ship off the coast. So it’s not surprising to me that this is happening, but it’s interesting to read the detail about it.”</p>

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China deployed a swarm of surveillance satellites to spy on two significant military training operations involving the United States and Australia, Australian Broadcasting Corporation reported.

China deployed a swarm of surveillance satellites to spy on two significant military training operations involving the United States and Australia, Australian Broadcasting Corporation reported. During the recently concluded Exercise Talisman Sabre, China is said to have deployed hundreds of its satellites over Australia to gather intelligence. Among these satellites was China's Shiyan 12-01, manoeuvring strategically beneath the equator to keep a watch on the joint war games between the US and Australia. Additionally, satellites like Shijian-17 and Shijian-23 were observed moving eastward to cover various zones where the military exercises took place. Vigilance over ‘Exercise Malabar’ In addition to spying on Exercise Talisman Sabre, China's surveillance satellites are also tracking the ongoing Exercise Malabar, a naval training programme. Over 300 satellites are reportedly engaged in monitoring these activities, accumulating a total of more than 3,000 flight hours since the commencement of Exercise Malabar on August 10. Also Read | Niger's new Prime Minister says no harm will come to captive President Mohamed Bazoum According to James Bennett, an official from EOS Space Systems, who spoke with ABC, there is significant ground surveying activity by China. “We’ve been collecting optical surveillance data on Earth observing Chinese satellites during the Talisman Sabre and Malabar exercises and what that’s showing is quite a lot of activity surveying the ground during those events,” Bennett told ABC News. Expanding presence in space China's reported recent surge in satellite-based espionage signifies its expanding influence in space. Just this month, China successfully launched its maiden geosynchronous orbit synthetic aperture radar satellite, further cementing its position in space technology. Also Read | Brazil: Bolsonaro's legal troubles mount as SC Justice authorises probe into his finances US Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall reportedly said China is capable of putting "weapons in space". CEO of the Space Industry Association James Brown reportedly said, “It’s also about dominating space." “Space is often viewed as the next frontier of conflict and China is staking a claim to it early," he added. Watch | Has China's growth story hit a roadblock? × Richard McGregor from the Lowy Institute told The Project, “It’s pretty unsurprising that China is spying on us." “Countries like China, with the capability that they have, they use any means they have," he said and added, “Satellites are obviously a much better way of picking up intelligence and a ship off the coast. So it’s not surprising to me that this is happening, but it’s interesting to read the detail about it.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Hundreds of Chinese satellites spying on US-Australia military exercises

There are faults in Elon Musk's Starlink satellites. They are leaking electromagnetic radiation. Launched into space to enhance broadband connectivity across the planet. Elon Musk's Starlink satellite constellation is leaking 'unintended electromagnetic radiation'. These radiations are likely to affect astronomical research.

Are Elon Musk's Starlink satellites leaking radiation?

Nations around the world are brawling over becoming the dominant power in space. Major global powers like Russia, China & the United States are competing with each other. As per a senior military official, the U.S. is ready for conflict in outer space. U.S. is alarmed by growing Russian aggression & China’s vision to become dominant space power by mid-century.

Is the U.S. prepared to fight in space amid threat posed by ‘provocative’ Russia & China?

In the last 6 months, China has launched dozens of low earth orbit satellites. It begs an obvious question: what are low earth orbit satellites? & Why is China suddenly sending so many of them into space? The Americans claim, China is using its low earth orbit satellites to spy on United States' military installations. Mohammed Saleh gets you the details of China's plans to build the world's biggest surveillance system.

China's 13,500 satellites to spy on U.S. Military installations | World at War

ISRO's second mission in 2023 has taken off successfully. The largest indigenous rocket LVM3 along with 36 satellites is now on route, space. This is the second commercial mission performed by LVM3.

India's largest, heaviest rocket LMV3 set to take off, to carry payload of 36 satellites

<p>Announcing the successful launch of India's heaviest rocket LVM3 in its second commercial mission, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) said that all 36 satellites belonging to OneWeb were injected into the intended orbit.</p>

<p>In his post-launch address, ISRO Chairman Dr S Somanath said that ISRO is gearing up for impending launches of its PSLV, GSLV Mk2 and LVM3 rockets in the coming months.</p>

<p>Acknowledging that the LVM3 vehicle did extremely well in its 9 am launch mission on Sunday, Somanath said that the satellites were placed in orbit with minimal disturbance.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/isros-largest-rocket-lvm3-lifts-off-successfully-on-2nd-commercial-mission-575788">ISRO's largest rocket LVM3 lifts off successfully on 2nd commercial mission</a></p>

<p>As per the plan, the rocket deployed 16 satellites in orbit initially and 20 satellites were deployed thereafter. ISRO initially confirmed the successful placement of 16 satellites in orbit and said that they would update regarding the deployment of the 20 remaining satellites when they receive tracking information about the same.</p>

<p>When satellites are deployed in space, often they are not immediately visible to ground-based tracking stations or even ship-borne tracking stations. It takes some time before satellites make the orbit and are visible in the range of the tracking stations.</p>

<p>D Radhakrishnan, Chairman of NSIL, the commercial arm of ISRO, said that this was an extremely momentous day. Just as was done in the October 2022 launch, the 'C25' cryogenic stage was used to perform a series of complex manoeuvres to inject the OneWeb satellites in nine batches of four each. He also reassured the customer OneWeb that ISRO-NSIL would be happy to provide more launch solutions as required.</p>

<p>S Mohana Kumar, the Mission Director of the LVM3-M3 mission said that the LVM3 rocket had shown its might and ruggedness in carrying heavy payloads to the required orbit. He also acknowledged team ISRO for having completed the launch campaign (the entire process of integrating, stacking, assembling and launching the rocket) of India's largest rocket in a record time of 72 days.</p>

<p>"We have done the rocket assembly in the 2nd vehicle assembly building and the entire vehicle integration was carried out under a single roof,” he said. He also thanked ISRO's numerous industry partners for supplying thousands of components and hardware to execute the launch successfully.</p>

<p>Referring to the steady and swift progress towards India's high-profile 'Gaganyaan' astronaut mission, chairman Somanath said that the first stage 'S200' twin boosters used on the LVM3-M3 mission was designed with higher margins and features geared towards Gaganyaan, he stated that progress towards Gaganyaan is happening incrementally.</p>

<p>As part of Gaganyaan, the Indian space agency is human-rating the LVM3 rocket (modifying it to be suitable, safe and reliable for ferrying humans to space). In recent years, ISRO has been developing hardware and conducting a host of tests of various systems and sub-systems in preparation for the Gaganyaan Mission.</p>

<p>OneWeb had signed a pact with NSIL and ISRO for placing a total of 72 satellites in orbit (in batches of 36). This deal has raked in more than Rs 10 billion in revenue for the Indian government-run space agency. It also provides an opportunity for ISRO to demonstrate the capability and reliability of their largest rocket for offering commercial launch services.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | WION Wings from Aero India 2023, Sidharth MP reports</strong></p>

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<p>Until October 2022, (the maiden commercial mission of LVM3), ISRO's LVM3 or GSLV Mk3 rocket was being used only for fulfilling India's national missions such as Chandrayaan-2 and launching heavy satellites. Notably, the LVM3 has performed successful launches in all its six missions (including that of March 26).</p>

<p>OneWeb has been utilising the launch services of SpaceX, Arianespace and ISRO to place all its 1st generation constellation satellites in orbit and OneWeb satellites have flown 17&nbsp;times to date, ISRO has carried and delivered the 18th set, thus enabling OneWeb to roll out commercial services. OneWeb aims to offer high-speed, low-latency internet connectivity from space via its constellation of satellites in Low Earth Orbit.</p>

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Announcing the successful launch of India's heaviest rocket LVM3 in its second commercial mission, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) said that all 36 satellites belonging to OneWeb were injected into the intended orbit.

Announcing the successful launch of India's heaviest rocket LVM3 in its second commercial mission, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) said that all 36 satellites belonging to OneWeb were injected into the intended orbit. In his post-launch address, ISRO Chairman Dr S Somanath said that ISRO is gearing up for impending launches of its PSLV, GSLV Mk2 and LVM3 rockets in the coming months. Acknowledging that the LVM3 vehicle did extremely well in its 9 am launch mission on Sunday, Somanath said that the satellites were placed in orbit with minimal disturbance. ALSO READ | ISRO's largest rocket LVM3 lifts off successfully on 2nd commercial mission As per the plan, the rocket deployed 16 satellites in orbit initially and 20 satellites were deployed thereafter. ISRO initially confirmed the successful placement of 16 satellites in orbit and said that they would update regarding the deployment of the 20 remaining satellites when they receive tracking information about the same. When satellites are deployed in space, often they are not immediately visible to ground-based tracking stations or even ship-borne tracking stations. It takes some time before satellites make the orbit and are visible in the range of the tracking stations. D Radhakrishnan, Chairman of NSIL, the commercial arm of ISRO, said that this was an extremely momentous day. Just as was done in the October 2022 launch, the 'C25' cryogenic stage was used to perform a series of complex manoeuvres to inject the OneWeb satellites in nine batches of four each. He also reassured the customer OneWeb that ISRO-NSIL would be happy to provide more launch solutions as required. S Mohana Kumar, the Mission Director of the LVM3-M3 mission said that the LVM3 rocket had shown its might and ruggedness in carrying heavy payloads to the required orbit. He also acknowledged team ISRO for having completed the launch campaign (the entire process of integrating, stacking, assembling and launching the rocket) of India's largest rocket in a record time of 72 days. "We have done the rocket assembly in the 2nd vehicle assembly building and the entire vehicle integration was carried out under a single roof,” he said. He also thanked ISRO's numerous industry partners for supplying thousands of components and hardware to execute the launch successfully. Referring to the steady and swift progress towards India's high-profile 'Gaganyaan' astronaut mission, chairman Somanath said that the first stage 'S200' twin boosters used on the LVM3-M3 mission was designed with higher margins and features geared towards Gaganyaan, he stated that progress towards Gaganyaan is happening incrementally. As part of Gaganyaan, the Indian space agency is human-rating the LVM3 rocket (modifying it to be suitable, safe and reliable for ferrying humans to space). In recent years, ISRO has been developing hardware and conducting a host of tests of various systems and sub-systems in preparation for the Gaganyaan Mission. OneWeb had signed a pact with NSIL and ISRO for placing a total of 72 satellites in orbit (in batches of 36). This deal has raked in more than Rs 10 billion in revenue for the Indian government-run space agency. It also provides an opportunity for ISRO to demonstrate the capability and reliability of their largest rocket for offering commercial launch services. WATCH | WION Wings from Aero India 2023, Sidharth MP reports Until October 2022, (the maiden commercial mission of LVM3), ISRO's LVM3 or GSLV Mk3 rocket was being used only for fulfilling India's national missions such as Chandrayaan-2 and launching heavy satellites. Notably, the LVM3 has performed successful launches in all its six missions (including that of March 26). OneWeb has been utilising the launch services of SpaceX, Arianespace and ISRO to place all its 1st generation constellation satellites in orbit and OneWeb satellites have flown 17 times to date, ISRO has carried and delivered the 18th set, thus enabling OneWeb to roll out commercial services. OneWeb aims to offer high-speed, low-latency internet connectivity from space via its constellation of satellites in Low Earth Orbit. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Largest rocket LVM3 places 36 satellites in orbit, augments confidence for Gaganyaan: ISRO chairman

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<p>Researchers have warned the increasing light pollution caused by thousands of artificial satellites and space waste orbiting Earth could prove detrimental to the work of astronauts studying the universe, according to a new study published in the journal&nbsp;<em>Nature Astronomy.&nbsp;</em></p>

<p>The report added that the menace of light pollution poses an "unprecedented global threat to nature" as well. Modelling data suggested that the darkest part of the night sky will become 7.5 per cent brighter over the next decade for the Vera Rubin Observatory, a giant telescope currently under construction in Chile.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meaning, the astronomers from the said observatory will witness a reduction of 7.5 per cent in the number of stars they can observe. It will add an extra year to their workload, not to mention an additional $21.8 million in funding money to the exchequer,&nbsp;which could have been easily avoided if Earth's lower orbit layers were kept debris-free.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/light-pollution-from-satellites-space-waste-poses-risk-to-astronomy-374530" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Light pollution from satellites, space waste poses risk to astronomy</strong></a></p>

<p>The researchers warned that current measurements of light pollution had significantly underestimated the phenomenon. They added that the brightening of the Earth's atmosphere threatened "our ancient relationship with the night sky".</p>

<p>"Space is our shared heritage and ancestor, connecting us through science, storytelling, art, origin stories and cultural traditions - and it is now at risk," said Aparna Venkatesan, an astronomer at the University of San Francisco in the journal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The loss of the natural aspect of a pristine night sky for all the world, even on the summit of K2 or on the shore of Lake Titicaca or on Easter Island is an unprecedented global threat to nature and cultural heritage."</p>

<p>The total number of satellites in the Earth's low orbit has more than doubled since 2019. Elon Musk-owned SpaceX and its 'mega-constellation' has been the major reason for the spurt in numbers.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-nasa-spacecraft-to-visit-most-volcanic-world-in-solar-system-543521"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: NASA spacecraft to visit most volcanic world in solar system</strong></a></p>

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<p>Scientists are now batting to limit these mega-constellations whilst also urging the world governments to explore the possibility of outright banning them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sunlight that is reflected and scattered from space objects can look like streaks in observations made by telescopes from the ground, making their work harder. It&nbsp;compromises astronomical data and poses the threat of irretrievable loss of information.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Researchers have warned the increasing light pollution caused by thousands of artificial satellites and space waste orbiting Earth could prove detrimental to the work of astronauts studying the universe, according to a new study published in the journal Nature Astronomy.

Researchers have warned the increasing light pollution caused by thousands of artificial satellites and space waste orbiting Earth could prove detrimental to the work of astronauts studying the universe, according to a new study published in the journal Nature Astronomy. The report added that the menace of light pollution poses an "unprecedented global threat to nature" as well. Modelling data suggested that the darkest part of the night sky will become 7.5 per cent brighter over the next decade for the Vera Rubin Observatory, a giant telescope currently under construction in Chile. Meaning, the astronomers from the said observatory will witness a reduction of 7.5 per cent in the number of stars they can observe. It will add an extra year to their workload, not to mention an additional $21.8 million in funding money to the exchequer, which could have been easily avoided if Earth's lower orbit layers were kept debris-free. Read more: Light pollution from satellites, space waste poses risk to astronomy The researchers warned that current measurements of light pollution had significantly underestimated the phenomenon. They added that the brightening of the Earth's atmosphere threatened "our ancient relationship with the night sky". "Space is our shared heritage and ancestor, connecting us through science, storytelling, art, origin stories and cultural traditions - and it is now at risk," said Aparna Venkatesan, an astronomer at the University of San Francisco in the journal. "The loss of the natural aspect of a pristine night sky for all the world, even on the summit of K2 or on the shore of Lake Titicaca or on Easter Island is an unprecedented global threat to nature and cultural heritage." The total number of satellites in the Earth's low orbit has more than doubled since 2019. Elon Musk-owned SpaceX and its 'mega-constellation' has been the major reason for the spurt in numbers. WATCH | Gravitas: NASA spacecraft to visit most volcanic world in solar system × Scientists are now batting to limit these mega-constellations whilst also urging the world governments to explore the possibility of outright banning them. Sunlight that is reflected and scattered from space objects can look like streaks in observations made by telescopes from the ground, making their work harder. It compromises astronomical data and poses the threat of irretrievable loss of information. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Light pollution from satellites worse than previously thought, warn scientists

<p>Indicating steady progress of work in building India's second spaceport, the Indian government revealed that 81 per cent of land required for the project at Kulasekarapattinam, Tamil Nadu has been acquired. The remaining parcels of land are in advanced stage of acquisition, the government said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Land acquisition is under progress by Government of Tamil Nadu. Till date, acquisition of land to an extent of 1946.44 acres (out of 2376 acres) is completed by Government of Tamil Nadu and the same is taken over by Department of Space," as revealed in lower house of Parliament of India.</p>

<p>In a written reply, Minister of State, Prime Minister's Office, Dr Jitendra Singh mentioned that a total of Rs 980.56 crore &nbsp;(approx $118 million) has been sanctioned for the ‘Acquisition of Land and establishment of space launch centre infrastructure at Thoothukudi district of Tamil Nadu’. Of this sum, Rs.210.20 crore (approx $25 million) &nbsp;has been remitted to the Government of Tamil Nadu towards land acquisition, read the minister's response. It was also added that the construction activity would commence only after the entire land acquisition process is completed.</p>

<p>About time of completion of the spaceport, it was broadly mentioned that it would take 2-3 years after land acquisition and after all clearances.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">"Rs.980.56cr sanctioned for land acqn&amp; estab of space launch <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/infra?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#infra</a> at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/thoothukudi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#thoothukudi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TamilNadu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TamilNadu</a>" <a href="https://twitter.com/DrJitendraSingh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrJitendraSingh</a> ,on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a>'s 2nd Spaceport<br />
1946 of 2376acrs acquired, rest in advncd stage of acqn;210cr remitted to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TNGovt?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TNGovt</a> for land<br />
<br />
To be ops ready 2-3yrs aftr acqn <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/space?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#space</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ISRO?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ISRO</a> <a href="https://t.co/eSzUasWs6j">pic.twitter.com/eSzUasWs6j</a></p>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1605495192672382976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Tamil Nadu is a southern Indian state. The new spaceport will be constructed in southern part of the state. The new spaceport at Kulasekarapattinam will offer some advantages over the existing and only spaceport in India at Sriharikota.</p>

<p>Rockets flying into polar orbit from Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh need to perform a turn-manoeuvre to avoid flying over Sri Lanka. This needs fuel and reduces the mass that can be carried to orbit . While this doesn't have much impact on large rockets, it adversely impacts the capacity of small rockets such as the SSLV (Small satellites Launch Vehicle) and those being built by Indian start-ups.</p>

<p>A launch from Kulasekarapattinam will enable a straight flight path to the polar regions (without having to overfly/ bypass Sri Lanka), thereby saving fuel and payload capacity. Given that smaller rockets are easier to manufacture, assemble and take lesser time to launch, it is important for India to have a dedicated spaceport for smaller rockets. Notably, smaller rockets are also attractive to foreign and domestic customers who are looking to launch small satellites at low costs.</p>

<p>Two Indian start-ups are actively working on building indigenous rockets (to carry 500 kg and lesser to Low Earth Orbit) and would find the second spaceport an attractive location to launch from. Recently, a start-up Skyroot Aerospace demonstrated their sub-orbital rocket successfully and are hoping for an orbital launch by 2023-end. Another start-up Agnikul Cosmos is building a private launchpad at the existing spaceport in Sriharikota, in the run up to their maiden launch.</p>

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Indicating steady progress of work in building India's second spaceport, the Indian government revealed that 81 per cent of land required for the project at Kulasekarapattinam, Tamil Nadu has been acquired.

Indicating steady progress of work in building India's second spaceport, the Indian government revealed that 81 per cent of land required for the project at Kulasekarapattinam, Tamil Nadu has been acquired. The remaining parcels of land are in advanced stage of acquisition, the government said. Land acquisition is under progress by Government of Tamil Nadu. Till date, acquisition of land to an extent of 1946.44 acres (out of 2376 acres) is completed by Government of Tamil Nadu and the same is taken over by Department of Space," as revealed in lower house of Parliament of India. In a written reply, Minister of State, Prime Minister's Office, Dr Jitendra Singh mentioned that a total of Rs 980.56 crore (approx $118 million) has been sanctioned for the ‘Acquisition of Land and establishment of space launch centre infrastructure at Thoothukudi district of Tamil Nadu’. Of this sum, Rs.210.20 crore (approx $25 million) has been remitted to the Government of Tamil Nadu towards land acquisition, read the minister's response. It was also added that the construction activity would commence only after the entire land acquisition process is completed. About time of completion of the spaceport, it was broadly mentioned that it would take 2-3 years after land acquisition and after all clearances. "Rs.980.56cr sanctioned for land acqn& estab of space launch #infra at #thoothukudi #TamilNadu" @DrJitendraSingh ,on #India's 2nd Spaceport 1946 of 2376acrs acquired, rest in advncd stage of acqn;210cr remitted to #TNGovt for land To be ops ready 2-3yrs aftr acqn #space #ISRO pic.twitter.com/eSzUasWs6j — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) December 21, 2022 × Tamil Nadu is a southern Indian state. The new spaceport will be constructed in southern part of the state. The new spaceport at Kulasekarapattinam will offer some advantages over the existing and only spaceport in India at Sriharikota. Rockets flying into polar orbit from Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh need to perform a turn-manoeuvre to avoid flying over Sri Lanka. This needs fuel and reduces the mass that can be carried to orbit . While this doesn't have much impact on large rockets, it adversely impacts the capacity of small rockets such as the SSLV (Small satellites Launch Vehicle) and those being built by Indian start-ups. A launch from Kulasekarapattinam will enable a straight flight path to the polar regions (without having to overfly/ bypass Sri Lanka), thereby saving fuel and payload capacity. Given that smaller rockets are easier to manufacture, assemble and take lesser time to launch, it is important for India to have a dedicated spaceport for smaller rockets. Notably, smaller rockets are also attractive to foreign and domestic customers who are looking to launch small satellites at low costs. Two Indian start-ups are actively working on building indigenous rockets (to carry 500 kg and lesser to Low Earth Orbit) and would find the second spaceport an attractive location to launch from. Recently, a start-up Skyroot Aerospace demonstrated their sub-orbital rocket successfully and are hoping for an orbital launch by 2023-end. Another start-up Agnikul Cosmos is building a private launchpad at the existing spaceport in Sriharikota, in the run up to their maiden launch. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

India's second spaceport: $118 million sanctioned for land acquisition, setting up launch infra

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{324e6b5e-c0e4-49c2-a8a2-669fff697e10}{79}" paraid="960524925" >Over the last five years, the commercial arm of India's space agency has raked in millions in foreign revenue by launching satellites of customers from 19 nations. According to data revealed in India's Upper House of Parliament, the 177 foreign satellites launched in the last 19 years are from&nbsp;Australia, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Finland, France, Israel, Italy, Japan, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Netherlands, Republic of Korea, Singapore, Spain, Switzerland, United Kingdom and the USA.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{324e6b5e-c0e4-49c2-a8a2-669fff697e10}{114}" paraid="359680176" >On a commercial basis, the Indian Space Research Organization has placed orbit satellites of varying sizes using primarily the PSLV launcher. "The foreign exchange revenue generated through the launching of these 177 foreign satellites from January 2018 to November 2022 is approximately 94 million USD and 46 million Euro" read the written reply of Dr Jitendra Singh, Minister of State, Prime Minister's Office.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> launched 177 satellites from 19nations over the last 5yrs using PSLV &amp; 1LVM3(Jan 18-Nov 22)<br />
<br />
For this service, the commercial arm of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/isro?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#isro</a> earned $94mn &amp;Euro $46mn (This is despite <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> induced halt)<br />
<br />
Once SSLV is ops ready, it could bring in more $$<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Parliament?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Parliament</a> <a href="https://t.co/0K7LQ8CKDW">pic.twitter.com/0K7LQ8CKDW</a></p>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1603696794722095106?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>While the PSLV continues to be the mainstay of commercial launchers operated by India, the country recently used its heaviest rocket LVM3 or GSLV Mk3 on its maiden commercial mission. Carried out in October 2022, the mission involved orbiting 36 internet communication satellites of the UK-based firm OneWeb. This marked the entry of the LMV3 into the global commercial launch market, which has largely been dominated by a few space agencies or private firms from the US and Europe.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{324e6b5e-c0e4-49c2-a8a2-669fff697e10}{123}" paraid="1706656914" >With the LVM3 having matured as a launch vehicle and proven itself by delivering complete successes in all missions to date, the vehicle offers much promise for future commercial opportunities. In February 2023, the LVM3 is to be launched again for orbiting another set of OneWeb satellites. Once the newest rocket, SSLV or India's Small Satellite Launch Vehicle is operational and proven, it can further bolster the prospects for commercial launch services from India.&nbsp;</p>

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Over the last five years, the commercial arm of India's space agency has raked in millions in foreign revenue by launching satellites of customers from 19 nations.

Over the last five years, the commercial arm of India's space agency has raked in millions in foreign revenue by launching satellites of customers from 19 nations. According to data revealed in India's Upper House of Parliament, the 177 foreign satellites launched in the last 19 years are from Australia, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Finland, France, Israel, Italy, Japan, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Netherlands, Republic of Korea, Singapore, Spain, Switzerland, United Kingdom and the USA. On a commercial basis, the Indian Space Research Organization has placed orbit satellites of varying sizes using primarily the PSLV launcher. "The foreign exchange revenue generated through the launching of these 177 foreign satellites from January 2018 to November 2022 is approximately 94 million USD and 46 million Euro" read the written reply of Dr Jitendra Singh, Minister of State, Prime Minister's Office. #India launched 177 satellites from 19nations over the last 5yrs using PSLV & 1LVM3(Jan 18-Nov 22) For this service, the commercial arm of #isro earned $94mn &Euro $46mn (This is despite #COVID19 induced halt) Once SSLV is ops ready, it could bring in more $$#Parliament pic.twitter.com/0K7LQ8CKDW — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) December 16, 2022 × While the PSLV continues to be the mainstay of commercial launchers operated by India, the country recently used its heaviest rocket LVM3 or GSLV Mk3 on its maiden commercial mission. Carried out in October 2022, the mission involved orbiting 36 internet communication satellites of the UK-based firm OneWeb. This marked the entry of the LMV3 into the global commercial launch market, which has largely been dominated by a few space agencies or private firms from the US and Europe. With the LVM3 having matured as a launch vehicle and proven itself by delivering complete successes in all missions to date, the vehicle offers much promise for future commercial opportunities. In February 2023, the LVM3 is to be launched again for orbiting another set of OneWeb satellites. Once the newest rocket, SSLV or India's Small Satellite Launch Vehicle is operational and proven, it can further bolster the prospects for commercial launch services from India.

India: ISRO launched 177 satellites from 19 nations in last 5 years & earned millions

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<p>For those who observe very closely, no two rocket launches (months apart or years apart) take place at the exact same time. Each lift-off has its own specific, unique timing, down to the minute. Some happen at dusk, some at dawn, some during the midnight hour etc. For example, the recent launch of the LVM3, India's largest rocket carrying 36 satellites from UK-based company OneWeb, took place at 00:07hrs IST on October 23.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There is an entire branch of space science known as 'Orbital Mechanics' that is used to determine what is known as a 'Launch window', a period of time within which a certain launch must happen.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Launch windows depend on a plethora of factors - place of launch, type of orbit intended, final destination, whether it is headed for another planet, number of satellites being carried, the time of the year, the position of the relevant heavenly bodies and also minimal risk of space debris.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the case of OneWeb Launch, 14 which was carried out from India's Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, the launch was originally scheduled for Friday,22nd October night. However, due to some factors, the launch was carried out on Sunday 00:07am IST. OneWeb Officials told WION that they had determined the time of launch, in close coordination with ISRO, as the former were the paying customers for the launch. Interestingly, launch day 23rd October also happened to be the birthday of the Chairman of OneWeb, but that was just an extremely rare coincidence, with no relevance to the launch.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">“We used a sat dispenser meant for Soyuz <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/rocket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#rocket</a> &amp; it could carry only 36 satellites. Getting a larger dispenser for LVM3, to hold more satellites would’ve taken lot of time, hence <a href="https://twitter.com/OneWeb?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@oneweb</a> went with 36” <a href="https://twitter.com/M_Ladovaz?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@M_Ladovaz</a> told me, when I asked about putting only 6ton payload on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LVM3M2?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LVM3M2</a> <a href="https://t.co/EQTEBJvkNc">pic.twitter.com/EQTEBJvkNc</a></p>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1584861291860340736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 25, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>It must be noted that the Indian LVM3 rocket can carry anywhere between eight&nbsp;to 10 tons of payload to Low Earth orbit. However, OneWeb only put 36 satellites (weighing 6tons in total) on board the rocket. Queried about why the company did not make full use of the payload capacity and derive maximum value out of the launch, Massimiliano Ladovaz, CTO, OneWeb told WION that it was a limitation posed by the satellite dispenser that they used.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ladovaz explained to WION that the satellite dispenser was originally meant for only 36 satellites and was supposed to fly on a Soyuz rocket. Owing to circumstances, when OneWeb decided to launch their satellites on ISRO's LVM3, they knew that they had to go with 36 satellites on the existing dispenser or spend precious time for getting a new dispenser. "We would have liked to and could have done more(launched more satellites on this LVM3 rocket), however getting a new dispenser to accommodate more satellites would have taken more time" he elaborated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With Low Earth orbit getting increasingly populated with constellations of communication satellites from various firms, astronomers have raised concerns. The issues are primarily to do with light getting reflected from the satellites' solar panels, satellite trails appearing in astronomical images and adversely affected the field of view of astronomers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When queried about what OneWeb was doing to mitigate this issue, Ladovaz told WION that the company was working with astronomers to measure the exact impact and prepare to reduce it. He also said that the OneWeb satellites were placed in an orbit that was too high to be visible. However, he did acknowledge that they could be seen in some conditions by astronomers. He added that the company was working on reducing this adverse impact by darkening some reflective surfaces of their Next-gen constellation of satellites.&nbsp;</p>

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For those who observe very closely, no two rocket launches (months apart or years apart) take place at the exact same time. Each lift-off has its own specific, unique timing, down to the minute.

For those who observe very closely, no two rocket launches (months apart or years apart) take place at the exact same time. Each lift-off has its own specific, unique timing, down to the minute. Some happen at dusk, some at dawn, some during the midnight hour etc. For example, the recent launch of the LVM3, India's largest rocket carrying 36 satellites from UK-based company OneWeb, took place at 00:07hrs IST on October 23. There is an entire branch of space science known as 'Orbital Mechanics' that is used to determine what is known as a 'Launch window', a period of time within which a certain launch must happen. Launch windows depend on a plethora of factors - place of launch, type of orbit intended, final destination, whether it is headed for another planet, number of satellites being carried, the time of the year, the position of the relevant heavenly bodies and also minimal risk of space debris. In the case of OneWeb Launch, 14 which was carried out from India's Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, the launch was originally scheduled for Friday,22nd October night. However, due to some factors, the launch was carried out on Sunday 00:07am IST. OneWeb Officials told WION that they had determined the time of launch, in close coordination with ISRO, as the former were the paying customers for the launch. Interestingly, launch day 23rd October also happened to be the birthday of the Chairman of OneWeb, but that was just an extremely rare coincidence, with no relevance to the launch. “We used a sat dispenser meant for Soyuz #rocket & it could carry only 36 satellites. Getting a larger dispenser for LVM3, to hold more satellites would’ve taken lot of time, hence @oneweb went with 36” @M_Ladovaz told me, when I asked about putting only 6ton payload on #LVM3M2 pic.twitter.com/EQTEBJvkNc — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) October 25, 2022 × It must be noted that the Indian LVM3 rocket can carry anywhere between eight to 10 tons of payload to Low Earth orbit. However, OneWeb only put 36 satellites (weighing 6tons in total) on board the rocket. Queried about why the company did not make full use of the payload capacity and derive maximum value out of the launch, Massimiliano Ladovaz, CTO, OneWeb told WION that it was a limitation posed by the satellite dispenser that they used. Ladovaz explained to WION that the satellite dispenser was originally meant for only 36 satellites and was supposed to fly on a Soyuz rocket. Owing to circumstances, when OneWeb decided to launch their satellites on ISRO's LVM3, they knew that they had to go with 36 satellites on the existing dispenser or spend precious time for getting a new dispenser. "We would have liked to and could have done more(launched more satellites on this LVM3 rocket), however getting a new dispenser to accommodate more satellites would have taken more time" he elaborated. With Low Earth orbit getting increasingly populated with constellations of communication satellites from various firms, astronomers have raised concerns. The issues are primarily to do with light getting reflected from the satellites' solar panels, satellite trails appearing in astronomical images and adversely affected the field of view of astronomers. When queried about what OneWeb was doing to mitigate this issue, Ladovaz told WION that the company was working with astronomers to measure the exact impact and prepare to reduce it. He also said that the OneWeb satellites were placed in an orbit that was too high to be visible. However, he did acknowledge that they could be seen in some conditions by astronomers. He added that the company was working on reducing this adverse impact by darkening some reflective surfaces of their Next-gen constellation of satellites. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained: Why ISRO launched LVM3 at 12:07am & why only 36 satellites on biggest rocket?

<p>With less than 12 hours to go for the maiden commercial launch and multi-satellite launch by India's heaviest rocket, ISRO chairman Dr. Somanath, termed it a “historic event”. He said that the Indian space agency was happy to have 36 OneWeb satellites on board the LVM3 rocket, ready for deployment in orbit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The wee-hour launch that is to take place at 12:07 am on Sunday, will take place from India's spaceport Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC), Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. This launch is meant to place 36 satellites of UK-based OneWeb, in Low Earth Orbit, around 601 kms above the earth's surface.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Here's the much-awaited integration <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/video?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#video</a> of the heaviest <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/rocket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#rocket</a> designed &amp; built in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> - GSLV Mk3/LVM3<br />
This beast will be launched tomo 00:07 in its maiden commercial mission &amp; orbiting 36 satellites of <a href="https://twitter.com/OneWeb?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@OneWeb</a><br />
<br />
This'll mark foray of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/isro?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#isro</a> into global medium-lift market🚀 <a href="https://t.co/IvMpAgQvTQ">pic.twitter.com/IvMpAgQvTQ</a></p>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1583653045253963777?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 22, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>This mission is dubbed as 'LVM3 M2/OneWeb India-1' and 'M2' refers to the fact that this is the second operational launch of India's heaviest rocket Launch Vehicle Mark 3 (LVM 3 or GSLV Mk3). The suffix of OneWeb India-1 signifies that the launch is being facilitated for the customer company, UK-based OneWeb. The number '1' is meant to denote that this is the first of two launches that ISRO will be carrying out for OneWeb, as part of a launch contract.&nbsp;</p>

<p>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/24-hr-countdown-for-gslv-mk3-first-ever-commercial-flight-527424">24-hour countdown for GSLV Mk3's first-ever commercial flight to begin Saturday</a></p>

<p>"It's truly a red-letter day for India, NSIL (commercial arm of ISRO) and OneWeb. As we embark upon the 14th launch of OneWeb, which will inject 36 new satellites into orbit, this becomes a very special moment for all of us. I am very glad that today, we are lifting off one of the most important missions from India, on the GSLV Mk3 rocket" said Sunil Bharti Mittal, Founder and Chairman, Bharti Enterprises.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">"Today we're going to witness historic LVM3-OneWeb mission, 1st-ever commercial launch of LVM3 &amp; 36sats to be orbited" S.Somanath, Chairman <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ISRO?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ISRO</a><br />
<br />
"Truly a red-letter day for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> ,NSIL <a href="https://twitter.com/isro?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@isro</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/OneWeb?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@OneWeb</a> ;14th launch of OneWeb, a spl moment" Sunil Bharti Mittal,Bharti Enterprise <a href="https://t.co/WwbvDENRp2">pic.twitter.com/WwbvDENRp2</a></p>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1583674931102949376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 22, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>OneWeb is a global communication network powered from space, enabling connectivity for governments, businesses and communities. The firm is implementing a constellation of Low Earth orbit satellites, which will be arranged in 12 orbital planes with 49 satellites in each plane, this constellation will have a total of 648 satellites. India's Bharti Enterprises serves as a major shareholder and investor in OneWeb. This is OneWeb's 14th launch overall and first-ever launch with the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) and its commercial arm NSIL.</p>

<p>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/land-acquisition-complete-for-indias-2nd-spaceport-work-may-begin-soon-says-former-isro-director-526400">Land acquisition complete for India's 2nd spaceport, work may begin soon, says former ISRO Director</a></p>

<p>The duration of the mission, from lift-off till separation of the first satellite will be a little over 19 minutes. This launch will mark the entry of the Indian GSLV Mk3 rocket into the global medium-lift commercial launch services arena, which has largely been a duopoly of American and European firms.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The GSLV Mk3 rocket is a three-stage heavy-lift launch vehicle developed by ISRO. The vehicle has two solid strap-on motors (burns solid fuel), a core-stage liquid booster (burns a combination of liquid fuels) and a cryogenic upper stage (burns liquid hydrogen with liquid oxygen). GSLV Mk III is designed to carry 4-ton class of satellites into Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) or about 10 tons to Low Earth Orbit (LEO), which is about twice the capability of its predecessor, the GSLV Mk II.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">"This launch'll open up the big commercial launch service market, for LVM3 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/rocket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#rocket</a> .Many operators world over are looking at establishing LEO constellations for global comms..This effort by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NSIL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NSIL</a> will enhance India's market share in global <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/space?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#space</a> economy" Radhakrishnan, CMD, NSIL <a href="https://t.co/ccPvc6Arx9">pic.twitter.com/ccPvc6Arx9</a></p>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1583694334611726336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 22, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>D.Radhakrishnan, Chairman and Managing Director, NSIL, referred to this launch as a significant milestone for NSIL. He added that it would open up the big global commercial launch service market for this rocket, as many operators world-over were looking to build Low Earth Orbit constellations for meeting global communications needs. He said that this effort of NSIL would go a long way in Enhancing India's share in the global space economy.</p>

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With less than 12 hours to go for the maiden commercial launch and multi-satellite launch by India's heaviest rocket, ISRO chairman Dr. Somanath, termed it a “historic event”.

With less than 12 hours to go for the maiden commercial launch and multi-satellite launch by India's heaviest rocket, ISRO chairman Dr. Somanath, termed it a “historic event”. He said that the Indian space agency was happy to have 36 OneWeb satellites on board the LVM3 rocket, ready for deployment in orbit. The wee-hour launch that is to take place at 12:07 am on Sunday, will take place from India's spaceport Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC), Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. This launch is meant to place 36 satellites of UK-based OneWeb, in Low Earth Orbit, around 601 kms above the earth's surface. Here's the much-awaited integration #video of the heaviest #rocket designed & built in #India - GSLV Mk3/LVM3 This beast will be launched tomo 00:07 in its maiden commercial mission & orbiting 36 satellites of @OneWeb This'll mark foray of #isro into global medium-lift market🚀 pic.twitter.com/IvMpAgQvTQ — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) October 22, 2022 × This mission is dubbed as 'LVM3 M2/OneWeb India-1' and 'M2' refers to the fact that this is the second operational launch of India's heaviest rocket Launch Vehicle Mark 3 (LVM 3 or GSLV Mk3). The suffix of OneWeb India-1 signifies that the launch is being facilitated for the customer company, UK-based OneWeb. The number '1' is meant to denote that this is the first of two launches that ISRO will be carrying out for OneWeb, as part of a launch contract. ALSO READ: 24-hour countdown for GSLV Mk3's first-ever commercial flight to begin Saturday "It's truly a red-letter day for India, NSIL (commercial arm of ISRO) and OneWeb. As we embark upon the 14th launch of OneWeb, which will inject 36 new satellites into orbit, this becomes a very special moment for all of us. I am very glad that today, we are lifting off one of the most important missions from India, on the GSLV Mk3 rocket" said Sunil Bharti Mittal, Founder and Chairman, Bharti Enterprises. "Today we're going to witness historic LVM3-OneWeb mission, 1st-ever commercial launch of LVM3 & 36sats to be orbited" S.Somanath, Chairman #ISRO "Truly a red-letter day for #India ,NSIL @isro & @OneWeb ;14th launch of OneWeb, a spl moment" Sunil Bharti Mittal,Bharti Enterprise pic.twitter.com/WwbvDENRp2 — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) October 22, 2022 × OneWeb is a global communication network powered from space, enabling connectivity for governments, businesses and communities. The firm is implementing a constellation of Low Earth orbit satellites, which will be arranged in 12 orbital planes with 49 satellites in each plane, this constellation will have a total of 648 satellites. India's Bharti Enterprises serves as a major shareholder and investor in OneWeb. This is OneWeb's 14th launch overall and first-ever launch with the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) and its commercial arm NSIL. ALSO READ: Land acquisition complete for India's 2nd spaceport, work may begin soon, says former ISRO Director The duration of the mission, from lift-off till separation of the first satellite will be a little over 19 minutes. This launch will mark the entry of the Indian GSLV Mk3 rocket into the global medium-lift commercial launch services arena, which has largely been a duopoly of American and European firms. The GSLV Mk3 rocket is a three-stage heavy-lift launch vehicle developed by ISRO. The vehicle has two solid strap-on motors (burns solid fuel), a core-stage liquid booster (burns a combination of liquid fuels) and a cryogenic upper stage (burns liquid hydrogen with liquid oxygen). GSLV Mk III is designed to carry 4-ton class of satellites into Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) or about 10 tons to Low Earth Orbit (LEO), which is about twice the capability of its predecessor, the GSLV Mk II. "This launch'll open up the big commercial launch service market, for LVM3 #rocket .Many operators world over are looking at establishing LEO constellations for global comms..This effort by #NSIL will enhance India's market share in global #space economy" Radhakrishnan, CMD, NSIL pic.twitter.com/ccPvc6Arx9 — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) October 22, 2022 × D.Radhakrishnan, Chairman and Managing Director, NSIL, referred to this launch as a significant milestone for NSIL. He added that it would open up the big global commercial launch service market for this rocket, as many operators world-over were looking to build Low Earth Orbit constellations for meeting global communications needs. He said that this effort of NSIL would go a long way in Enhancing India's share in the global space economy. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

‘Historic event’: ISRO chairman Somanath ahead of 'LVM3 M2 OneWeb India-1' mission

Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) informed on Thursday that it will launch 36 satellites of United Kingdom’s global communications network OneWeb onboard its heaviest launcher the Launch Vehicle Mark III (LVM3) this month.

ISRO plans to launch 36 OneWeb satellites this month

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on Thursday successfully launched three Singaporean satellites in a commercial mission of the New Space India Limited. PSLV-C53 took off from Sriharikota and injected the three satellites into precise orbits.

India: ISRO successfully launches PSLV-C53 with 3 Singapore satellites

<p>South Korea on Tuesday (June 21) launched its first domestically-developed space rocket informally called Nuri. The launch has successfully placed several satellites in orbit, officials said. This is the country's second attempt after a launch last October failed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>South Korea's state television pictures showed the rocket lifting off from Naro Space Center on the southern coast of South Korea at 0700 GMT. The launch is termed a major step in the country's efforts to jumpstart the space programme after the failed test last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the launch, the officials revealed that Nuri, which is a 162.5-kg (358 lb)satellite designed to verify the rocket's performance entered the orbit and successfully made contact with a base station in Antarctica.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the officials, the rocket successfully placed a 1.3-ton dummy satellite and four small cube satellites developed by universities for research, into orbit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>South Korea's YTN television reported minutes after lift-off that "Nuri separates dummy satellite" and shortly after the launch, the TV report noted that it "appears to be a success".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The three-stage Nuri rocket has been a decade in development for $1.5 billion and it weighs 200 tonnes and is 47.2 metres long, fitted with a total of six liquid-fuelled engines.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Science and ICT Minister Lee Jong-ho told a briefing: "The sky of the Korean universe is now wide open. Our science and technology has made great strides."&nbsp;</p>

<p>President Yoon Suk-yeol hailed the achievement as he watched the launch from his office. As per a statement by his office, he thanked everyone involved in the project.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by media outlets, Yoon said: "Now the road to space from our land has been opened. It was the product of 30 years of daunting challenges. From now on, the dreams and hopes of our people and our youth will extend into space."&nbsp;</p>

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South Korea on Tuesday (June 21) launched its first domestically-developed space rocket informally called Nuri. The launch has successfully placed several satellites in orbit, officials said.

South Korea on Tuesday (June 21) launched its first domestically-developed space rocket informally called Nuri. The launch has successfully placed several satellites in orbit, officials said. This is the country's second attempt after a launch last October failed. South Korea's state television pictures showed the rocket lifting off from Naro Space Center on the southern coast of South Korea at 0700 GMT. The launch is termed a major step in the country's efforts to jumpstart the space programme after the failed test last year. After the launch, the officials revealed that Nuri, which is a 162.5-kg (358 lb)satellite designed to verify the rocket's performance entered the orbit and successfully made contact with a base station in Antarctica. As per the officials, the rocket successfully placed a 1.3-ton dummy satellite and four small cube satellites developed by universities for research, into orbit. South Korea's YTN television reported minutes after lift-off that "Nuri separates dummy satellite" and shortly after the launch, the TV report noted that it "appears to be a success". The three-stage Nuri rocket has been a decade in development for $1.5 billion and it weighs 200 tonnes and is 47.2 metres long, fitted with a total of six liquid-fuelled engines. Science and ICT Minister Lee Jong-ho told a briefing: "The sky of the Korean universe is now wide open. Our science and technology has made great strides." President Yoon Suk-yeol hailed the achievement as he watched the launch from his office. As per a statement by his office, he thanked everyone involved in the project. As quoted by media outlets, Yoon said: "Now the road to space from our land has been opened. It was the product of 30 years of daunting challenges. From now on, the dreams and hopes of our people and our youth will extend into space." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

South Korea launches domestically-developed space rocket, successfully puts satellites in orbit

<p>Sony&nbsp;on Thursday said it formed a&nbsp;new&nbsp;company that will&nbsp;build&nbsp;and supply devices that allow small&nbsp;satellites in orbit to communicate with one another via laser beams, dipping into the fast-growing&nbsp;space&nbsp;sector.</p>

<p>Sony&nbsp;Space&nbsp;Communications Corp, registered on Wednesday, is meant to take advantage of laser technology to avoid a bottleneck of radio frequencies. The devices will work between&nbsp;satellites in&nbsp;space&nbsp;and&nbsp;satellites communicating with ground stations.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/sony-to-boost-playstation-5-production-to-add-more-games-482317">&nbsp;Sony to boost PlayStation 5 production, to add more games</a></strong></p>

<p>The company did not say when it expects to have its first commercial device operating in&nbsp;space, whether it has existing customers lined up or how much money it has invested into the technology to date.</p>

<p>There are roughly 12,000&nbsp;satellites in orbit, a number that is projected to increase rapidly in the coming years as rocket companies slash the cost of launching things to&nbsp;space, and as firms like Amazon and&nbsp;SpaceX&nbsp;build&nbsp;vast networks of low-earth&nbsp;satellites to carry internet communications to all the globe.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Sony unveils its game pass alternative, launches new PlayStation subscription service</strong></p>

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<p>"The amount of data used in orbit is also increasing year by year, but the amount of available radio waves is limited," the&nbsp;new&nbsp;company's president, Kyohei Iwamoto, said in a statement.</p>

<p>SpaceX makes its own laser communications devices in-house and first launched them on its Starlink&nbsp;satellites late last year.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sony-and-honda-plan-joint-electric-vehicle-firm-458945">Sony and Honda plan joint electric vehicle firm</a></strong></p>

<p>Sony&nbsp;said one of its first successful tests occurred in 2020 when it transmitted high-definition image data by laser from the International&nbsp;Space&nbsp;Station to a ground station in Japan.</p>

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Sony on Thursday said it formed a new company that will build and supply devices that allow small satellites in orbit to communicate with one another via laser beams, dipping into the fast-growing space sector.

Sony on Thursday said it formed a new company that will build and supply devices that allow small satellites in orbit to communicate with one another via laser beams, dipping into the fast-growing space sector. Sony Space Communications Corp, registered on Wednesday, is meant to take advantage of laser technology to avoid a bottleneck of radio frequencies. The devices will work between satellites in space and satellites communicating with ground stations. Also read | Sony to boost PlayStation 5 production, to add more games The company did not say when it expects to have its first commercial device operating in space, whether it has existing customers lined up or how much money it has invested into the technology to date. There are roughly 12,000 satellites in orbit, a number that is projected to increase rapidly in the coming years as rocket companies slash the cost of launching things to space, and as firms like Amazon and SpaceX build vast networks of low-earth satellites to carry internet communications to all the globe. Watch | Sony unveils its game pass alternative, launches new PlayStation subscription service "The amount of data used in orbit is also increasing year by year, but the amount of available radio waves is limited," the new company's president, Kyohei Iwamoto, said in a statement. SpaceX makes its own laser communications devices in-house and first launched them on its Starlink satellites late last year. Also read | Sony and Honda plan joint electric vehicle firm Sony said one of its first successful tests occurred in 2020 when it transmitted high-definition image data by laser from the International Space Station to a ground station in Japan. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Sony to build space lasers with new satellite services unit

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<p>Indian academia is gearing up to build 75 satellites, that are expected to be launched by ISRO rockets between August 15, 2022, and 2023.</p>

<p>Efforts in this regard are being carried out to commemorate the 75th year of Indian independence. The project is being carried out under the technical guidance of Dr Mayilsamy Annadurai, a former Director of the Indian Space Research Organisation's lead centre for the design and development of satellites. WION spoke to Dr Annadurai regarding this ambitious goal that lay ahead.</p>

<p>Initiated by the Indian Technology Congress Association (ITCA), the project aims to bring together universities, engineering colleges and schools that will design, build, integrate and test their student-built satellites. Back in 2021, a handful of Indian academia had built 3 satellites known as 'UNITYSat', which was launched as a co-passenger in ISRO's PSLV C51, Amazonia mission.</p>

<p>According to Dr Annadurai, some of the major lessons that students learned from building UNITYSat are being implemented in the ongoing project of building 75 satellites.&nbsp;</p>

<p>To test the new systems that are being incorporated in the upcoming satellites, an engineering model will be flown in the coming months. Once the validation is completed successfully, the students will be trained to build the nano-satellites and carry out the related tasks, with the support of an Indian space start-up.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While the respective academic institutions are bearing the cost of this initiative, some state governments such as that of Karnataka have also pitched in with financial support to help students from their government-run schools.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Project monitoring committee, comprising topmost officials from <a href="https://twitter.com/isro?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@isro</a> &amp; outside experts to meet every 2 weeks to follow up, facilitate the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianStudent?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianStudent</a> mission to build 75 nano satellites btween August 15th 2022-23 , get them launched by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ISRO?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ISRO</a> rockets <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/space?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#space</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Satellite?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Satellite</a> <a href="https://t.co/Na3gHduyrY">pic.twitter.com/Na3gHduyrY</a></p>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1501533034059038726?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>To cut short the time to fabricate 75 satellites and make the mission frugal, the start-up is expected to provide satellite-building kits, to the students. Once placed in orbit by the PSLV rocket, each satellite is designed to remain in earth orbit for up to a year and provide data to the ground stations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This will give the students the experience of not just building the satellite, but also the ability to operate the ground station to track the satellite and gather, analyse the data obtained.</p>

<p>While each of the 75 satellites is meant to have an individual objective, such as capturing images, collecting data, monitoring radiation, other parameters, that will not be the only task at hand. The constellation of 75 nano-satellites will also be used to test concepts such as the internet of things, low-earth communication, inter-satellite communication, among others.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is being done to keep the mission going, even if a few satellites fail. This concept also has the potential to be improvised, even beyond this 75 satellites mission, Dr Annadurai added.</p>

<p>Playing a lead role in this mission of ensuring design, development, fabrication, testing and launching of 75 nano-satellites (each weighing less than 10kg), ITCA is being supported by the Indian Space Research Organisation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the next year, ITCA and ISRO will mentor the students, provide their technical support, review the progress of the mission and suggest corrections as necessary. The project monitoring committee comprising of experts from within and outside ISRO is to meet every few weeks to track the progress of the mission and ensure its facilitation.</p>


Indian academia is gearing up to build 75 satellites, that are expected to be launched by ISRO rockets between August 15, 2022, and 2023. Efforts in this regard are being carried out to commemorate the 75th year of Indian independence.

Indian academia is gearing up to build 75 satellites, that are expected to be launched by ISRO rockets between August 15, 2022, and 2023. Efforts in this regard are being carried out to commemorate the 75th year of Indian independence. The project is being carried out under the technical guidance of Dr Mayilsamy Annadurai, a former Director of the Indian Space Research Organisation's lead centre for the design and development of satellites. WION spoke to Dr Annadurai regarding this ambitious goal that lay ahead. Initiated by the Indian Technology Congress Association (ITCA), the project aims to bring together universities, engineering colleges and schools that will design, build, integrate and test their student-built satellites. Back in 2021, a handful of Indian academia had built 3 satellites known as 'UNITYSat', which was launched as a co-passenger in ISRO's PSLV C51, Amazonia mission. According to Dr Annadurai, some of the major lessons that students learned from building UNITYSat are being implemented in the ongoing project of building 75 satellites. To test the new systems that are being incorporated in the upcoming satellites, an engineering model will be flown in the coming months. Once the validation is completed successfully, the students will be trained to build the nano-satellites and carry out the related tasks, with the support of an Indian space start-up. While the respective academic institutions are bearing the cost of this initiative, some state governments such as that of Karnataka have also pitched in with financial support to help students from their government-run schools. Project monitoring committee, comprising topmost officials from @isro & outside experts to meet every 2 weeks to follow up, facilitate the #IndianStudent mission to build 75 nano satellites btween August 15th 2022-23 , get them launched by #ISRO rockets #India #space #Satellite pic.twitter.com/Na3gHduyrY — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) March 9, 2022 × To cut short the time to fabricate 75 satellites and make the mission frugal, the start-up is expected to provide satellite-building kits, to the students. Once placed in orbit by the PSLV rocket, each satellite is designed to remain in earth orbit for up to a year and provide data to the ground stations. This will give the students the experience of not just building the satellite, but also the ability to operate the ground station to track the satellite and gather, analyse the data obtained. While each of the 75 satellites is meant to have an individual objective, such as capturing images, collecting data, monitoring radiation, other parameters, that will not be the only task at hand. The constellation of 75 nano-satellites will also be used to test concepts such as the internet of things, low-earth communication, inter-satellite communication, among others. This is being done to keep the mission going, even if a few satellites fail. This concept also has the potential to be improvised, even beyond this 75 satellites mission, Dr Annadurai added. Playing a lead role in this mission of ensuring design, development, fabrication, testing and launching of 75 nano-satellites (each weighing less than 10kg), ITCA is being supported by the Indian Space Research Organisation. In the next year, ITCA and ISRO will mentor the students, provide their technical support, review the progress of the mission and suggest corrections as necessary. The project monitoring committee comprising of experts from within and outside ISRO is to meet every few weeks to track the progress of the mission and ensure its facilitation.

As part of 75th year of independence, ISRO to launch 75 satellites built by Indian academia

<p>Tonga&nbsp;says space entrepreneur and Tesla founder Elon Musk has donated 50 satellite terminals to help the volcano-damaged Pacific island reconnect with the world.</p>

<p>Tonga's telecommunications system has been severely restricted since January 15 when a violent volcanic eruption and tsunami severed its underwater fibre-optic cable.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Musk's Space X corporation is providing 50 very-small-aperture terminals (VSAT) "and we are looking at how we can best utilize it," Prime Minister Siaosi Sovaleni said Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/elon-musk-donated-tesla-shares-worth-57-billion-to-charity-last-year-453478">Elon Musk donated Tesla shares worth $5.7 billion to charity last year</a></strong></p>

<p>The tiny South Pacific kingdom was also considering offers to increase&nbsp;Tonga's internet capacity, which has been operating on a very small bandwidth since the cable was broken.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's something we are testing right now," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Technical staff from SpaceX and the&nbsp;Tonga&nbsp;Government were working on installing the equipment to have it operational from next week.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Tonga eruption sent ripples through the Ionosphere</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tonga-eruption-sent-ripples-through-the-ionosphere-453254/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The volcanic eruption, so powerful it was heard as far away as Alaska and triggered a tsunami that flooded coastlines around the Pacific, shredded an 80-kilometre (50 miles) stretch of&nbsp;Tonga's undersea telecommunications cable.</p>

<p>Sovaleni said he expected temporary repairs to be completed early next week.</p>


Tonga says space entrepreneur and Tesla founder Elon Musk has donated 50 satellite terminals to help the volcano-damaged Pacific island reconnect with the world.

Tonga says space entrepreneur and Tesla founder Elon Musk has donated 50 satellite terminals to help the volcano-damaged Pacific island reconnect with the world. Tonga's telecommunications system has been severely restricted since January 15 when a violent volcanic eruption and tsunami severed its underwater fibre-optic cable. Musk's Space X corporation is providing 50 very-small-aperture terminals (VSAT) "and we are looking at how we can best utilize it," Prime Minister Siaosi Sovaleni said Friday. Also read | Elon Musk donated Tesla shares worth $5.7 billion to charity last year The tiny South Pacific kingdom was also considering offers to increase Tonga's internet capacity, which has been operating on a very small bandwidth since the cable was broken. "It's something we are testing right now," he said. Technical staff from SpaceX and the Tonga Government were working on installing the equipment to have it operational from next week. Watch | Tonga eruption sent ripples through the Ionosphere The volcanic eruption, so powerful it was heard as far away as Alaska and triggered a tsunami that flooded coastlines around the Pacific, shredded an 80-kilometre (50 miles) stretch of Tonga's undersea telecommunications cable. Sovaleni said he expected temporary repairs to be completed early next week.

Musk donates satellite gear to reconnect Tonga

<p>In a "marvellous accomplishment", Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has put earth observation satellite EOS-04 and two small satellites into&nbsp;orbit successfully. &nbsp;</p>

<p>After blasting off at 5.59 am on Monday, the first launch mission of 2022 was carried out by the PSLV-C52 rocket. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The agency's launch vehicle, PSLV, injected the satellites into its intended orbit after a flight of around 19 minutes. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/a-training-or-a-scary-movie-nasa-prepares-for-moonwalk-on-pitch-dark-south-pole-shares-images-452900" hreflang="en">A training or a scary movie? NASA prepares for moonwalk on pitch-dark south pole, shares images</a></strong></p>

<p>The feat triggered instant cheers and applause from the scientists, who were monitoring the year's maiden mission.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Launch of PSLV-C52/EOS-04 <a href="https://t.co/naTQFgbm7b">https://t.co/naTQFgbm7b</a></p>
— ISRO (@isro) <a href="https://twitter.com/isro/status/1493011164246077440?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>In a tweet, ISRO said that EOS-04 was placed into an intended sun synchronous polar orbit of 529 km altitude at 6.17 am. &nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">India’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle PSLV-C52 injected Earth Observation Satellite EOS-04, into an intended sun synchronous polar orbit of 529 km altitude at 06:17 hours IST on February 14, 2022 from Satish Dhawan Space Centre, SHAR, Sriharikota. <a href="https://t.co/BisacQP8Qf">https://t.co/BisacQP8Qf</a></p>
— ISRO (@isro) <a href="https://twitter.com/isro/status/1493025667448852481?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>After injecting the EOS-04, the two small satellites, INSPIREsat-1 (17.5 kg) and INS-2TD (8.1 kg), were also placed in their orbits, respectively. &nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/isro?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@isro</a> captured from mumbai nagpur flight many congratulations <a href="https://t.co/9FJ7jJ7CVX">pic.twitter.com/9FJ7jJ7CVX</a></p>
— Rishikesh Awasthi (@Rishi_Aw) <a href="https://twitter.com/Rishi_Aw/status/1493028981674758151?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>After the successful launch, ISRO Chairman S Somanath said, "The mission of PSLV-C52/EOS-04 has been successfully accomplished. The primary satellite EOS-04 has been put into a very precise orbit by PSLV-C52, and along with that, co-passenger satellites INSPIREsat-1 and INS-2TD also have been placed into right orbit." &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/did-the-dinosaurs-suffer-from-respiratory-issues-researchers-make-breathtaking-discovery-452405" hreflang="en">Did the dinosaurs suffer from respiratory issues? Researchers make breathtaking discovery &nbsp;</a></strong></p>

<p>Thanking experts, who made the mission possible, Somanath added, "This spacecraft is going to be one of the biggest assets for us to serve the country." &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">PSLV C52 over chennai airspace .<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ISRO?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ISRO</a> <a href="https://t.co/p5p3iEpUTp">pic.twitter.com/p5p3iEpUTp</a></p>
— Sai Prasanna (@Prasanna60Sai) <a href="https://twitter.com/Prasanna60Sai/status/1493025063741706242?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Mission Director SR Biju said, "What we have accomplished today is really marvellous." &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">VIDEO: Yet another feather in the much decorated hat of Team <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ISRO?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ISRO</a>.<br />
Kudos ISRO for the successful launch of PSLV-C52 rocket carrying Earth Observation Satellite EOS-04, a Radar Imaging Satellite designed to provide high quality images under all weather conditions. <a href="https://t.co/ZnPwOKz1HS">pic.twitter.com/ZnPwOKz1HS</a></p>
— Dr Jitendra Singh (@DrJitendraSingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrJitendraSingh/status/1493033283835219969?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>EOS-04 weighs 1,710 kg and has a mission life of 10 years. It is a Radar Imaging Satellite, which will provide high quality images under all weather conditions. It can be useful for forestry and plantations, agriculture,&nbsp;soil moisture and hydrology and flood mapping. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


In a "marvellous accomplishment", Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has put earth observation satellite EOS-04 and two small satellites into orbit successfully.

In a "marvellous accomplishment", Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has put earth observation satellite EOS-04 and two small satellites into orbit successfully. After blasting off at 5.59 am on Monday, the first launch mission of 2022 was carried out by the PSLV-C52 rocket. The agency's launch vehicle, PSLV, injected the satellites into its intended orbit after a flight of around 19 minutes. Also Read: A training or a scary movie? NASA prepares for moonwalk on pitch-dark south pole, shares images The feat triggered instant cheers and applause from the scientists, who were monitoring the year's maiden mission. Launch of PSLV-C52/EOS-04 https://t.co/naTQFgbm7b — ISRO (@isro) February 13, 2022 × In a tweet, ISRO said that EOS-04 was placed into an intended sun synchronous polar orbit of 529 km altitude at 6.17 am. India’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle PSLV-C52 injected Earth Observation Satellite EOS-04, into an intended sun synchronous polar orbit of 529 km altitude at 06:17 hours IST on February 14, 2022 from Satish Dhawan Space Centre, SHAR, Sriharikota. https://t.co/BisacQP8Qf — ISRO (@isro) February 14, 2022 × After injecting the EOS-04, the two small satellites, INSPIREsat-1 (17.5 kg) and INS-2TD (8.1 kg), were also placed in their orbits, respectively. @isro captured from mumbai nagpur flight many congratulations pic.twitter.com/9FJ7jJ7CVX — Rishikesh Awasthi (@Rishi_Aw) February 14, 2022 × After the successful launch, ISRO Chairman S Somanath said, "The mission of PSLV-C52/EOS-04 has been successfully accomplished. The primary satellite EOS-04 has been put into a very precise orbit by PSLV-C52, and along with that, co-passenger satellites INSPIREsat-1 and INS-2TD also have been placed into right orbit." Also Read: Did the dinosaurs suffer from respiratory issues? Researchers make breathtaking discovery Thanking experts, who made the mission possible, Somanath added, "This spacecraft is going to be one of the biggest assets for us to serve the country." PSLV C52 over chennai airspace .#ISRO pic.twitter.com/p5p3iEpUTp — Sai Prasanna (@Prasanna60Sai) February 14, 2022 × Mission Director SR Biju said, "What we have accomplished today is really marvellous." VIDEO: Yet another feather in the much decorated hat of Team #ISRO. Kudos ISRO for the successful launch of PSLV-C52 rocket carrying Earth Observation Satellite EOS-04, a Radar Imaging Satellite designed to provide high quality images under all weather conditions. pic.twitter.com/ZnPwOKz1HS — Dr Jitendra Singh (@DrJitendraSingh) February 14, 2022 × EOS-04 weighs 1,710 kg and has a mission life of 10 years. It is a Radar Imaging Satellite, which will provide high quality images under all weather conditions. It can be useful for forestry and plantations, agriculture, soil moisture and hydrology and flood mapping. (With inputs from agencies)

Marvellous accomplishment: In 2022's maiden mission, ISRO puts three satellites into orbit successfully

<p>Tech giant Amazon is requesting permission from US communications regulators to deploy more than 4,500 additional satellites which are to be part of the company's effort to deliver broadband internet to areas around the world with no access to high-speed internet.</p>

<p>Previously, Amazon had unveiled plans to spend at least $10 billion for 3236 satellites under its Project Kuiper programme.</p>

<p>Late on Thursday, it asked the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for approval to deploy a total of 7,774 satellites for the project.</p>

<p>On Monday, Amazon asked the FCC for approval to launch and operate two prototype satellites by the end of 2022.</p>

<p>Amazon said in its filing the satellites "will serve households, hospitals, businesses, government agencies, and other organizations around the world, including in geographic areas where reliable broadband remains lacking."</p>

<p>"Although connectivity has improved on a global basis, only 51% of the global population, and 44% of the population of developing countries, are online," the company filing said.</p>

<p>Project Kuiper plan was approved by the FCC for the constellation of low-Earth orbit satellites to compete with the Starlink network being built out by Elon Musk’s SpaceX.</p>

<p>Amazon has sparred with Musk, recently accusing the billionaire of ignoring a variety of government-imposed rules.</p>

<p>Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and Musk are rivals in the private space launch business. Bezos' Blue Origin had challenged the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's decision to award a $2.9 billion lunar lander contract to SpaceX but a judge rejected the challenge on Thursday.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Tech giant Amazon is requesting permission from US communications regulators to deploy more than 4,500 additional satellites which are to be part of the company's effort to deliver broadband internet to areas around the world with no access to high-speed internet.

Tech giant Amazon is requesting permission from US communications regulators to deploy more than 4,500 additional satellites which are to be part of the company's effort to deliver broadband internet to areas around the world with no access to high-speed internet. Previously, Amazon had unveiled plans to spend at least $10 billion for 3236 satellites under its Project Kuiper programme. Late on Thursday, it asked the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for approval to deploy a total of 7,774 satellites for the project. On Monday, Amazon asked the FCC for approval to launch and operate two prototype satellites by the end of 2022. Amazon said in its filing the satellites "will serve households, hospitals, businesses, government agencies, and other organizations around the world, including in geographic areas where reliable broadband remains lacking." "Although connectivity has improved on a global basis, only 51% of the global population, and 44% of the population of developing countries, are online," the company filing said. Project Kuiper plan was approved by the FCC for the constellation of low-Earth orbit satellites to compete with the Starlink network being built out by Elon Musk’s SpaceX. Amazon has sparred with Musk, recently accusing the billionaire of ignoring a variety of government-imposed rules. Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and Musk are rivals in the private space launch business. Bezos' Blue Origin had challenged the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's decision to award a $2.9 billion lunar lander contract to SpaceX but a judge rejected the challenge on Thursday. (With inputs from agencies)

Amazon asks permission to deploy 4,500 more satellites to bring internet to remote locations

<p>In&nbsp;an air-sea&nbsp;coordinated operation, the&nbsp;Indian&nbsp;Coast Guard(ICG) rescued a distressed fishing vessel ‘RSN-TWO’ and its seven crew, on Thursday. The vessel was off Tillanchong Island, nearly&nbsp;350 Km south of Port Blair.</p>

<p>This mission highlighted the significance of a home-grown satellite communication device that helps fishermen&nbsp;in&nbsp;distress, by alerting the concerned authorities.</p>

<p>The Maritime Rescue Co-ordination Centre (MRCC) Port Blair received an unregistered DAT (Distress Alert Transmitter) alert around Wednesday noon.</p>

<p>As the DAT was unregistered, its data was unavailable with the ICG, hence the details were sought from the fisheries department.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On learning that the said vessel was ‘RSN-TWO’, which left Port Blair earlier&nbsp;in&nbsp;the week for fishing, ICG tasked ship C-422 from Kamorta, besides ship Vishwast and Dornier aircraft for&nbsp;Search and Rescue. On locating the boat off Tillanchong island and establishing contact, early on Thursday, it was learnt that the boat had machinery failure.&nbsp;</p>

<p>AN ICG team that boarded the distressed vessel provided basic necessities and first aid, following which&nbsp;attempts were made to rectify the defect.</p>

<p>Due to the non-availability of specific spares the on-site repair was not possible, also considering the&nbsp;inclement weather conditions, the distressed vessel was towed for passage to Kamorta, by ICGS Vishwast.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/drone-spotted-inside-indian-mission-in-islamabad-matter-raised-395299"><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;Drone spotted inside Indian mission in Islamabad; matter raised</strong></a></p>

<p>Jointly&nbsp;developed&nbsp;by the&nbsp;Indian&nbsp;Space Research Organization(ISRO) and&nbsp;Indian&nbsp;Coast Guard, the DAT(Distress Alert Transponder) is a low-cost and effective satellite transmitter built for fishermen.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At&nbsp;a press of a button, this device transmits distress alerts to the&nbsp;Search and Rescue Authorities through the&nbsp;INSAT series of&nbsp;satellites. The&nbsp;Indian&nbsp;Coast Guard has been emphasizing that fishermen must carry the DAT device and also register it for effective, timely&nbsp;search and rescue.</p>

<p>The&nbsp;Indian&nbsp;National Satellite (INSAT) system is one of the largest domestic communication satellite systems&nbsp;in the Asia-Pacific region with multiple operational communication&nbsp;satellites&nbsp;placed&nbsp;in&nbsp;Geo-stationary orbit. Established&nbsp;in&nbsp;1983 with the commissioning of&nbsp;INSAT-1B, it&nbsp;initiated a major revolution&nbsp;in&nbsp;India’s communications sector and sustained the same later.</p>

<p>According to ISRO, the&nbsp;INSAT system with more than 200 transponders&nbsp;in&nbsp;the C, Extended C and Ku-bands provides services to telecommunications, television broadcasting, satellite news-gathering, societal applications, weather forecasting, disaster warning and&nbsp;Search and Rescue operations.</p>


In an air-sea coordinated operation, the Indian Coast Guard(ICG) rescued a distressed fishing vessel ‘RSN-TWO’ and its seven crew, on Thursday. The vessel was off Tillanchong Island, nearly 350 Km south of Port Blair.

In an air-sea coordinated operation, the Indian Coast Guard(ICG) rescued a distressed fishing vessel ‘RSN-TWO’ and its seven crew, on Thursday. The vessel was off Tillanchong Island, nearly 350 Km south of Port Blair. This mission highlighted the significance of a home-grown satellite communication device that helps fishermen in distress, by alerting the concerned authorities. The Maritime Rescue Co-ordination Centre (MRCC) Port Blair received an unregistered DAT (Distress Alert Transmitter) alert around Wednesday noon. As the DAT was unregistered, its data was unavailable with the ICG, hence the details were sought from the fisheries department. On learning that the said vessel was ‘RSN-TWO’, which left Port Blair earlier in the week for fishing, ICG tasked ship C-422 from Kamorta, besides ship Vishwast and Dornier aircraft for Search and Rescue. On locating the boat off Tillanchong island and establishing contact, early on Thursday, it was learnt that the boat had machinery failure. AN ICG team that boarded the distressed vessel provided basic necessities and first aid, following which attempts were made to rectify the defect. Due to the non-availability of specific spares the on-site repair was not possible, also considering the inclement weather conditions, the distressed vessel was towed for passage to Kamorta, by ICGS Vishwast. Also Read | Drone spotted inside Indian mission in Islamabad; matter raised Jointly developed by the Indian Space Research Organization(ISRO) and Indian Coast Guard, the DAT(Distress Alert Transponder) is a low-cost and effective satellite transmitter built for fishermen. At a press of a button, this device transmits distress alerts to the Search and Rescue Authorities through the INSAT series of satellites. The Indian Coast Guard has been emphasizing that fishermen must carry the DAT device and also register it for effective, timely search and rescue. The Indian National Satellite (INSAT) system is one of the largest domestic communication satellite systems in the Asia-Pacific region with multiple operational communication satellites placed in Geo-stationary orbit. Established in 1983 with the commissioning of INSAT-1B, it initiated a major revolution in India’s communications sector and sustained the same later. According to ISRO, the INSAT system with more than 200 transponders in the C, Extended C and Ku-bands provides services to telecommunications, television broadcasting, satellite news-gathering, societal applications, weather forecasting, disaster warning and Search and Rescue operations.

ISRO-ICG developed tech, Indian satellites prove crucial in saving lives at sea

<p>Artificial satellites and space waste orbiting the Earth can make the night sky brighter, researchers have found, warning that light pollution from these could affect astronomers work to study the universe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The European Space Agency (ESA) said that more than 9,200 tonnes of space objects present in the Earth's orbit, that include defunct satellites, reports The Guardian.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Such objects not just capable of light pollution, but also poses a collision risk.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/astronomers-observe-most-pristine-comet-from-outer-space-in-solar-system-374505">Astronomers observe most 'pristine' comet from outer space in Solar system</a></strong></p>

<p>Scientists in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society detail how sunlight that is reflected and scattered from space objects can look like streaks in observations made by telescopes from the ground.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/researchers-reveal-how-human-heart-adapts-to-space-374276">Researchers reveal how human heart adapts to space</a></strong></p>

<p>"Because the streaks are often comparable to or brighter than objects of astrophysical interest, their presence tends to compromise astronomical data and poses the threat of irretrievable loss of information," the researchers wrote.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They also said, "when observed with relatively low-sensitivity detectors like the unaided human eye, or with low-angular-resolution photometers, their combined effect is that of a diffuse night sky brightness component, much like the unresolved integrated starlight background of the Milky Way."</p>

<p>According to their calculations, the glow could rise up to 10 per cent of the natural sky brightness, a light pollution level earlier set by the International Astronomical Union (IAU) as being the limit that is acceptable at astronomical observatory regions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Though the scientists stress that natural levels of brightness have their own challenges, they said the current situation could become worse once more satellites, including "mega-constellations", are launched.</p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Artificial satellites and space waste orbiting the Earth can make the night sky brighter, researchers have found, warning that light pollution from these could affect astronomers work to study the universe.

Artificial satellites and space waste orbiting the Earth can make the night sky brighter, researchers have found, warning that light pollution from these could affect astronomers work to study the universe. The European Space Agency (ESA) said that more than 9,200 tonnes of space objects present in the Earth's orbit, that include defunct satellites, reports The Guardian. Such objects not just capable of light pollution, but also poses a collision risk. Also read | Astronomers observe most 'pristine' comet from outer space in Solar system Scientists in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society detail how sunlight that is reflected and scattered from space objects can look like streaks in observations made by telescopes from the ground. Also read | Researchers reveal how human heart adapts to space "Because the streaks are often comparable to or brighter than objects of astrophysical interest, their presence tends to compromise astronomical data and poses the threat of irretrievable loss of information," the researchers wrote. They also said, "when observed with relatively low-sensitivity detectors like the unaided human eye, or with low-angular-resolution photometers, their combined effect is that of a diffuse night sky brightness component, much like the unresolved integrated starlight background of the Milky Way." According to their calculations, the glow could rise up to 10 per cent of the natural sky brightness, a light pollution level earlier set by the International Astronomical Union (IAU) as being the limit that is acceptable at astronomical observatory regions. Though the scientists stress that natural levels of brightness have their own challenges, they said the current situation could become worse once more satellites, including "mega-constellations", are launched.

Light pollution from satellites, space waste poses risk to astronomy

<p>SpaceX is gearing up to launch its next batch of Starlink satellites.&nbsp;On Tuesday, SpaceX will dispatch a Falcon 9 rocket as part of its 17th Starlink mission.</p>

<p>As part of this mission, over 60 Starlink internet satellites will be pushed into the Earth’s orbit, and join 1,000 other satellites. The goal of this mission is provide global space-based broadband coverage.</p>

<p>This will mark the first Starlink launch of 2021. SpaceX launched its first mission of 2021 on January 7, when it launched a Turkish communications satellite to ease telecommunications services in Turkey and nearby countries.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Due to unfavorable weather conditions in the recovery area, now targeting Tuesday, January 19 at 8:23 a.m. EST for launch of Starlink</p>
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<p>The 17th Starlink mission will take off from Kennedy Space Center’s Launch Pad 39A on Tuesday at 8.23 AM local time. Earlier, it was scheduled to take off on Monday at 8.45 AM local time.</p>

<p>SpaceX, marked the new year by launching first&nbsp;Falcon 9 rocket to&nbsp;a new communications satellite to space for Turkey on January 7.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/watch-elon-musks-spacex-launches-first-falcon-9-rocket-of-2021-355294" hreflang="en">Watch: Elon Musk's SpaceX launches first Falcon 9 rocket of 2021</a></p>

<p>SpaceX launched the first pair of next-genertion broadcasting birds,&nbsp;Turksat 5A, launched to&nbsp;orbit from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida when the weather was forecasted to be 70 per cent favourable.</p>

<p>The satellite landed on&nbsp;a first stage Falcon 9 booster which then shortly made&nbsp;its fourth flight and an immediate landing on&nbsp;the Just Read the Instructions droneship, which was parked in the&nbsp;Atlantic Ocean.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: I</strong><a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/indian-american-among-three-astronauts-selected-for-spacex-crew-3-mission-349842" hreflang="en">ndian-American among three astronauts selected for SpaceX Crew-3 Mission</a></p>

<p>While the mission is being described as a routine process for SpaceX, it is being considered as an important mission which has helped the space compay set a tone and schedule for the new year.</p>


SpaceX is gearing up to launch its next batch of Starlink satellites. On Tuesday, SpaceX will dispatch a Falcon 9 rocket as part of its 17th Starlink mission. As part of this mission, over 60 Starlink internet satellites will be pushed into the Earth’s orbit, and join 1,000 other satellites.

SpaceX is gearing up to launch its next batch of Starlink satellites. On Tuesday, SpaceX will dispatch a Falcon 9 rocket as part of its 17th Starlink mission. As part of this mission, over 60 Starlink internet satellites will be pushed into the Earth’s orbit, and join 1,000 other satellites. The goal of this mission is provide global space-based broadband coverage. This will mark the first Starlink launch of 2021. SpaceX launched its first mission of 2021 on January 7, when it launched a Turkish communications satellite to ease telecommunications services in Turkey and nearby countries. Due to unfavorable weather conditions in the recovery area, now targeting Tuesday, January 19 at 8:23 a.m. EST for launch of Starlink — SpaceX (@SpaceX) January 18, 2021 × The 17th Starlink mission will take off from Kennedy Space Center’s Launch Pad 39A on Tuesday at 8.23 AM local time. Earlier, it was scheduled to take off on Monday at 8.45 AM local time. SpaceX, marked the new year by launching first Falcon 9 rocket to a new communications satellite to space for Turkey on January 7. Also read: Watch: Elon Musk's SpaceX launches first Falcon 9 rocket of 2021 SpaceX launched the first pair of next-genertion broadcasting birds, Turksat 5A, launched to orbit from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida when the weather was forecasted to be 70 per cent favourable. The satellite landed on a first stage Falcon 9 booster which then shortly made its fourth flight and an immediate landing on the Just Read the Instructions droneship, which was parked in the Atlantic Ocean. Also read: Indian-American among three astronauts selected for SpaceX Crew-3 Mission While the mission is being described as a routine process for SpaceX, it is being considered as an important mission which has helped the space compay set a tone and schedule for the new year.

SpaceX to launch 2021's first fleet of Starlink satellites on Tuesday

<p>Dr VK Saraswat, member of the Niti Aayog said that India needed to focus on small satellites (smallsats). He said small satellites would play a major role in the coming years. He was speaking at an international space conference on 'Ushering the new in Indian Space Sector'</p>

<p>Small satellites (smallsats) is a generic term used to refer to satellites that weigh lesser than 500kg.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“709 satellites were launched in the short interval between November 2018 and March 2020” Dr. VK Saraswat. He projects that 7,038 Small satellites would be launched between 2018 and 2027, where most of them would be used for earth observation, technology and telecommunication purposes. For context, there are only 2,666 in orbit as of March 2020 and a three-fold increase in being foreseen by 2027.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking about the way the space business was evolving, he said that reusable rockets (one-stage or two-stage) and small expendable vehicles were going to be of immense value, as there was tremendous growth in re-usable and low-cost rockets. He also made a mention of ISRO’s upcoming Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) which is aimed at this segment.</p>

<p>It is notable that the world record of launching maximum number of satellites into orbit is held by the Indian PSLV rocket - which placed 104 satellites in orbit. Over 80 satellites carried by that rocket were owned by an American firm that operates small satellites for imaging purposes. It is such constellations of small satellites that are being touted as the future.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Small satellites make technology accessible to all, by ensuring it is affordable and it serves as a platform to test new technologies. While larger satellites serve multiple purposes, smaller ones can be made for a single-purpose and can reduce the complexity, cost and development time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to statistics shared by Saraswat, there were about 1000 Smallsats launched between 2012-17 and about 700 of them were Cubesats. Cubesats are an even smaller category of Smallsats that are cubes with dimensions in multiples of 10cm.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Saraswat also referred to some challenges for the SmallSat category, in terms of new technologies for telemetry, tracking and command, besides network for ground and space segment. Also, the Prague Declaration of 2015 showed the need for smallest developers to adhere to international laws, regulations and procedures. &nbsp;There are also challenges in the domains of authorization, registration, frequency allocation, risk, liability, insurance and space debris mitigation.</p>


Dr VK Saraswat, member of the Niti Aayog said that India needed to focus on small satellites (smallsats). He said small satellites would play a major role in the coming years.

Dr VK Saraswat, member of the Niti Aayog said that India needed to focus on small satellites (smallsats). He said small satellites would play a major role in the coming years. He was speaking at an international space conference on 'Ushering the new in Indian Space Sector' Small satellites (smallsats) is a generic term used to refer to satellites that weigh lesser than 500kg. “709 satellites were launched in the short interval between November 2018 and March 2020” Dr. VK Saraswat. He projects that 7,038 Small satellites would be launched between 2018 and 2027, where most of them would be used for earth observation, technology and telecommunication purposes. For context, there are only 2,666 in orbit as of March 2020 and a three-fold increase in being foreseen by 2027. Speaking about the way the space business was evolving, he said that reusable rockets (one-stage or two-stage) and small expendable vehicles were going to be of immense value, as there was tremendous growth in re-usable and low-cost rockets. He also made a mention of ISRO’s upcoming Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) which is aimed at this segment. It is notable that the world record of launching maximum number of satellites into orbit is held by the Indian PSLV rocket - which placed 104 satellites in orbit. Over 80 satellites carried by that rocket were owned by an American firm that operates small satellites for imaging purposes. It is such constellations of small satellites that are being touted as the future. Small satellites make technology accessible to all, by ensuring it is affordable and it serves as a platform to test new technologies. While larger satellites serve multiple purposes, smaller ones can be made for a single-purpose and can reduce the complexity, cost and development time. According to statistics shared by Saraswat, there were about 1000 Smallsats launched between 2012-17 and about 700 of them were Cubesats. Cubesats are an even smaller category of Smallsats that are cubes with dimensions in multiples of 10cm. However, Saraswat also referred to some challenges for the SmallSat category, in terms of new technologies for telemetry, tracking and command, besides network for ground and space segment. Also, the Prague Declaration of 2015 showed the need for smallest developers to adhere to international laws, regulations and procedures. There are also challenges in the domains of authorization, registration, frequency allocation, risk, liability, insurance and space debris mitigation.

India needs to focus on small satellites for Digital India: Niti Aayog member

<p>NASA researchers are tracking an evolving dent&nbsp;on Earth’s magnetic field splitting in two, that could impact satellites, navigation and spacecraft.</p>

<p>Earth’s magnetic field acts like a protective shield around the planet, repelling and trapping charged particles from the Sun.</p>

<p>But an unusually weak spot in the field called the South Atlantic Anomaly (SAA)&nbsp;stretching out between South America and southwest Africa, allows these particles to dip closer to the surface than normal.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/car-sized-asteroid-becomes-closest-ever-seen-passing-earth-nasa-321591" hreflang="en">Car-sized asteroid becomes closest ever seen passing Earth: NASA</a></strong></p>

<p>Particle radiation in this region can knock out onboard computers and interfere with the data collection of satellites that pass through it, a key reason why NASA scientists want to track and study the anomaly.</p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qpdQcw_52iM" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p>The South Atlantic Anomaly, new data has also shown, is weakening and expanding westward. Moreover, it's splitting into two lobes, rather than one large one, which will cause further headaches for managing satellite missions.</p>

<p>If satellites traveling through this weak area in the magnetic field are hit by energized particles, they can short-circuit, glitch or even sustain permanent damage. So satellite operators regularly shut down satellite components when they travel through the anomaly so they don't risk losing key instruments or the whole satellite.</p>

<p>The&nbsp;International Space Station, which is in low-Earth orbit, also passes through the SAA. It is well protected, and astronauts are safe from harm while inside.</p>

<p>However, the ISS has other passengers affected by the higher radiation levels: Instruments like the&nbsp;Global Ecosystem Dynamics Investigation&nbsp;mission, or GEDI, collect data from various positions on the outside of the ISS.</p>

<p>These random hits may usually only produce low-level glitches, but they do carry the risk of causing significant data loss, or even permanent damage to key components.</p>

<p>According to NASA, the Earth's magnetic field is produced by its molten, iron-rich core, which is in a constant state of motion 1,800 miles below the surface. These motions act like a generator, which is known as the geodynamo, and the electric currents that the movements create produce the magnetic field.</p>


NASA researchers are tracking an evolving dent on Earth’s magnetic field splitting in two, that could impact satellites, navigation and spacecraft. Earth’s magnetic field acts like a protective shield around the planet, repelling and trapping charged particles from the Sun.

NASA researchers are tracking an evolving dent on Earth’s magnetic field splitting in two, that could impact satellites, navigation and spacecraft. Earth’s magnetic field acts like a protective shield around the planet, repelling and trapping charged particles from the Sun. But an unusually weak spot in the field called the South Atlantic Anomaly (SAA) stretching out between South America and southwest Africa, allows these particles to dip closer to the surface than normal. Also read: Car-sized asteroid becomes closest ever seen passing Earth: NASA Particle radiation in this region can knock out onboard computers and interfere with the data collection of satellites that pass through it, a key reason why NASA scientists want to track and study the anomaly. The South Atlantic Anomaly, new data has also shown, is weakening and expanding westward. Moreover, it's splitting into two lobes, rather than one large one, which will cause further headaches for managing satellite missions. If satellites traveling through this weak area in the magnetic field are hit by energized particles, they can short-circuit, glitch or even sustain permanent damage. So satellite operators regularly shut down satellite components when they travel through the anomaly so they don't risk losing key instruments or the whole satellite. The International Space Station, which is in low-Earth orbit, also passes through the SAA. It is well protected, and astronauts are safe from harm while inside. However, the ISS has other passengers affected by the higher radiation levels: Instruments like the Global Ecosystem Dynamics Investigation mission, or GEDI, collect data from various positions on the outside of the ISS. These random hits may usually only produce low-level glitches, but they do carry the risk of causing significant data loss, or even permanent damage to key components. According to NASA, the Earth's magnetic field is produced by its molten, iron-rich core, which is in a constant state of motion 1,800 miles below the surface. These motions act like a generator, which is known as the geodynamo, and the electric currents that the movements create produce the magnetic field.

Growing dent on Earth’s magnetic field can damage satellites and navigation

<p>Myanmar will soon launch its first-ever satellite, joining an unlikely coalition of nascent space nations aiming to protect millions from environmental disasters.</p>

<p>It is the first space venture for Myanmar, the least economically developed country in a consortium that includes the Philippines, Vietnam and Indonesia.</p>

<p>The future "super constellation" of micro-satellites from nine Asian countries will track typhoons, seismic activity and water flows, as well as provide data on land use, the growth of crops and disease outbreaks.</p>

<p>The target is to launch around five micro-satellites every year, each weighing under 100 kilograms and with a lifespan of five years, until the consortium controls around 50 devices in orbit.</p>

<p>Myanmar's first contribution will cost a relatively non-astronomical $16 million -- a fraction of the $100 million bill or more for conventional satellites.</p>

<p>The launch will be overseas, but Myanmar will have its own ground control centre, working alongside a counterpart in Japan.</p>

<p>The satellites will also track changes in land use, from urban development to deforestation and illegal mining.</p>

<p>The launches should also deliver a decent payback; it is estimated every dollar the US spends in space returns up to $40 to the economy.</p>

<p>Myanmar's first batch of seven aerospace engineers have had their bags packed for several months, ready to fly to Japan for pre-launch development.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But their travel plans are still on hold, stymied by coronavirus border closures -- and time is tight with Myanmar's first launch slated for early 2021.</p>

<p><em><strong>(with inputs from AFP)</strong></em></p>


Myanmar will soon launch its first-ever satellite, joining an unlikely coalition of nascent space nations aiming to protect millions from environmental disasters.

Myanmar will soon launch its first-ever satellite, joining an unlikely coalition of nascent space nations aiming to protect millions from environmental disasters. It is the first space venture for Myanmar, the least economically developed country in a consortium that includes the Philippines, Vietnam and Indonesia. The future "super constellation" of micro-satellites from nine Asian countries will track typhoons, seismic activity and water flows, as well as provide data on land use, the growth of crops and disease outbreaks. The target is to launch around five micro-satellites every year, each weighing under 100 kilograms and with a lifespan of five years, until the consortium controls around 50 devices in orbit. Myanmar's first contribution will cost a relatively non-astronomical $16 million -- a fraction of the $100 million bill or more for conventional satellites. The launch will be overseas, but Myanmar will have its own ground control centre, working alongside a counterpart in Japan. The satellites will also track changes in land use, from urban development to deforestation and illegal mining. The launches should also deliver a decent payback; it is estimated every dollar the US spends in space returns up to $40 to the economy. Myanmar's first batch of seven aerospace engineers have had their bags packed for several months, ready to fly to Japan for pre-launch development. But their travel plans are still on hold, stymied by coronavirus border closures -- and time is tight with Myanmar's first launch slated for early 2021. (with inputs from AFP)

Myanmar to soon launch its first-ever satellite

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