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;

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;

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;

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&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;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-putin-preparing-for-a-nuclear-offensive-russias-new-nuclear-missile-can-hit-us-643476">Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Putin Preparing for a Nuclear Offensive? Russia's New Nuclear Missile Can Hit US</a>

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<h2>Turner urges Biden</h2>

After the intel was shared,&nbsp;head of the House Intelligence Committee, Mike Turner urged President Biden to come public with the information.&nbsp;

"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;

"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;

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.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-slams-western-hegemony-and-warns-over-nuclear-testing-says-mission-is-to-create-new-world-643050">Also read |&nbsp;'No chance of survival': Putin's latest nuclear warning has the world on edge</a>

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;

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;

(With inputs from agencies)

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

Australia has announced the cancellation of a billion-dollar space satellite programme. The decision to axe the programme has been taken as the nation tries to cut costs, and deal with financial constraints caused by an economic downturn and high cost of living.&nbsp;

Talking to public broadcaster ABC on Friday, Australia's Industry and Science Minister Ed Husic characterised the move as "making tough calls" and prioritising "broader environmental things" while fighting inflation.

<h2>Australia's space satellite programme</h2>

The National Space Mission for Earth Observation, with a budget of AU $1.2 billion or USD $770 million, was introduced last year. At the time, it was hailed as a crucial component in the development of Australia's space industry.

The primary objective of the programme was to create, construct, and operate four satellites that were to be launched between 2028 and 2033, gathering vital data for Earth observation. This data was to play a crucial role in weather forecasting, disaster response, and environmental management.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/europes-space-telescope-to-target-universes-dark-mysteries-610172">Europe's space telescope to target universe's dark mysteries</a>

However, the country's centre-left government has decided to abandon the initiative as part of "budget repair", resulting in Australia relying on Earth observation data from international partners.&nbsp;

The Industry and Science Minister explained that prioritising "broader environmental things" during a period of economic inflation necessitated difficult choices. He said that if funds were not cut from this programme, they would need to be sourced elsewhere within the portfolio.

"If I don't cut a billion there, I've got to find it somewhere else in the portfolio."

"There are other ways we can build capability — we're certainly interested in doing that. We just have to make the call on this," he added.

Despite sluggish economic growth and a steady increase in defence expenditure, the government has committed to achieving a balanced budget this year.&nbsp;

<h2>Industry experts say the decision is 'shortsighted'</h2>

While the cancellation of the billion-dollar satellite programme reflects the government's need to address financial challenges, critics assert that it may hinder progress in various sectors.&nbsp;

The decision to cancel the satellite programme has been criticised by the Space Industry Association of Australia, which considers it a short-sighted move.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/godfather-of-ai-calls-for-action-before-ai-is-smarter-than-us-warns-looming-takeover-isnt-science-fiction-609899">Godfather of AI calls for action 'before AI is smarter than us', warns looming takeover isn't science fiction</a>

The association argues that this decision undermines the government's agenda on climate change, defence, STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics), advanced manufacturing, and the creation of tech jobs.

"It will undermine the Albanese government's agenda on climate, defence, STEM, advanced manufacturing and building tech jobs," said the lobby group for Australia's space industry.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

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Australia has announced the cancellation of a billion-dollar space satellite programme. The decision to axe the programme has been taken as the nation tries to cut costs, and deal with financial constraints caused by an economic downturn and high cost of living.

Australia has announced the cancellation of a billion-dollar space satellite programme. The decision to axe the programme has been taken as the nation tries to cut costs, and deal with financial constraints caused by an economic downturn and high cost of living. Talking to public broadcaster ABC on Friday, Australia's Industry and Science Minister Ed Husic characterised the move as "making tough calls" and prioritising "broader environmental things" while fighting inflation. Australia's space satellite programme The National Space Mission for Earth Observation, with a budget of AU $1.2 billion or USD $770 million, was introduced last year. At the time, it was hailed as a crucial component in the development of Australia's space industry. The primary objective of the programme was to create, construct, and operate four satellites that were to be launched between 2028 and 2033, gathering vital data for Earth observation. This data was to play a crucial role in weather forecasting, disaster response, and environmental management. Also read | Europe's space telescope to target universe's dark mysteries However, the country's centre-left government has decided to abandon the initiative as part of "budget repair", resulting in Australia relying on Earth observation data from international partners. The Industry and Science Minister explained that prioritising "broader environmental things" during a period of economic inflation necessitated difficult choices. He said that if funds were not cut from this programme, they would need to be sourced elsewhere within the portfolio. "If I don't cut a billion there, I've got to find it somewhere else in the portfolio." "There are other ways we can build capability — we're certainly interested in doing that. We just have to make the call on this," he added. Despite sluggish economic growth and a steady increase in defence expenditure, the government has committed to achieving a balanced budget this year. Industry experts say the decision is 'shortsighted' While the cancellation of the billion-dollar satellite programme reflects the government's need to address financial challenges, critics assert that it may hinder progress in various sectors. The decision to cancel the satellite programme has been criticised by the Space Industry Association of Australia, which considers it a short-sighted move. Also read | Godfather of AI calls for action 'before AI is smarter than us', warns looming takeover isn't science fiction The association argues that this decision undermines the government's agenda on climate change, defence, STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics), advanced manufacturing, and the creation of tech jobs. "It will undermine the Albanese government's agenda on climate, defence, STEM, advanced manufacturing and building tech jobs," said the lobby group for Australia's space industry. (With inputs from agencies) 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.

Budget constraints force Australia to abandon billion-dollar space satellite programme

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;

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;

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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 
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> 
 
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>
— 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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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;

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>

"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. 
&nbsp;

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"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> 
 
"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>
— 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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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:&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>

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;

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. 
&nbsp;

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"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>
— 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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&nbsp;

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.

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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

According to the Russian Space Agency, India’s Cartosat 2F weighing over 700kg dangerously approached the Kanopus-V spacecraft at 01:49UTC, on Friday, November 27. In a tweet, Roscosmos has said that the minimum distance between both Russian and foreign satellite was 224 meters. Both the satellites are meant for earth’s remote sensing.&nbsp;

How significant and dangerous is this?&nbsp;

According to a source that spoke to WION on the condition of anonymity, 1 kilometre is an ideal distance between satellites in orbit, whereas 224 meter is scary and can be counted as a near miss. Generally, when two satellites are predicted (based on calculations) to make a close pass, a decision is taken to manoeuvre one of them away in advance (usually days ahead).&nbsp;

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-proposed-venus-mission-attracts-international-payload-proposals-344846">India's proposed Venus mission attracts international payload proposals</a>

Given how space is getting increasingly crowded with satellites that are used for various purposes, it is said to be normal for agencies to manoeuvre one of their satellites every 3-4 weeks. It is notable that low Earth orbit (500-2000km) is the most congested, with satellites of various sizes — ranging from 10cm cubes to ones that are the size of a car or larger.&nbsp;

However, the decision to manoeuvre is not very easy. Especially, when the satellite is performing a strategic role that requires it to be at a particular spot. Because the manoeuvre would affect the schedule of the pre-planned operation of surveillance (in whatever form). In this case, Roscosmos has said that both are remote sensing satellites, which implies that they in all likelihood used for strategic purposes.&nbsp;

The space community has been divided over the prediction models for tracking satellites in orbit. The existing ones are the European Model, American model, Russian model, whereas the Indian model is under development. The reason that the space community hotly debates the efficiency of the models is that there are differences between the calculations made using each model.&nbsp;

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-to-launch-bhutanese-satellite-train-its-engineers-344280">India to launch Bhutanese satellite; train its engineers&nbsp;</a>

Let’s assume, in this case, the Indian model said that the satellites would be 1km apart, whereas the Russian model would have predicted that they would be 500m apart. It is also highly likely that in reality, both models went wrong and the satellites get closer than the prediction showed. Hence, there is no single model that works accurately, as each one can provide a different result. Another factor that could impact prediction models in low earth orbits is the impact of the drag from the Earth's atmosphere.&nbsp;

Some interesting questions in this scenario are - how or why did the respective agencies allow the satellites to get this close? Were there predictions that both sides performed? Given the close Indo-Russian cooperation on space technology, did the agencies foresee this close shave and coordinate? &nbsp;

Most importantly, why would the Russian agency go public with this information, rather than discuss with ISRO officials. Or did both the agencies have critical strategic functions that required the satellites to remain exactly in their respective orbits, despite knowing that they would make a close pass.&nbsp;

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/isro-launches-pslv-c49-earth-imaging-satellite-into-space-341393">ISRO launches PSLV-C49 earth imaging satellite into space</a>

Is it possible that the agencies wanted to allow a close pass and then take a call on any possible manoeuvre in future? &nbsp;

The real danger posed by a possible collision of satellites would be the debris of varying sizes scattered across space in all directions, in high-speeds with high potential of harming other satellites.&nbsp;

The last large collision of satellites happened in 2009, when a US commercial Iridium spacecraft hit a defunct Russian satellite over Siberia, producing thousands of pieces of debris.

As of January 2020, there are around 2,000 active satellites orbiting the earth. There are also more than 23,000 pieces of debris larger than 10cm (4inches) in orbit, according to NASA.

WION did not receive a response from top ISRO officials, despite multiple attempts to reach out. The story will be updated if and when an ISRO response is available.&nbsp;

According to the Russian Space Agency, India’s Cartosat 2F weighing over 700kg dangerously approached the Kanopus-V spacecraft at 01:49UTC, on Friday, November 27.

According to the Russian Space Agency, India’s Cartosat 2F weighing over 700kg dangerously approached the Kanopus-V spacecraft at 01:49UTC, on Friday, November 27. In a tweet, Roscosmos has said that the minimum distance between both Russian and foreign satellite was 224 meters. Both the satellites are meant for earth’s remote sensing. How significant and dangerous is this? According to a source that spoke to WION on the condition of anonymity, 1 kilometre is an ideal distance between satellites in orbit, whereas 224 meter is scary and can be counted as a near miss. Generally, when two satellites are predicted (based on calculations) to make a close pass, a decision is taken to manoeuvre one of them away in advance (usually days ahead). Also read| India's proposed Venus mission attracts international payload proposals Given how space is getting increasingly crowded with satellites that are used for various purposes, it is said to be normal for agencies to manoeuvre one of their satellites every 3-4 weeks. It is notable that low Earth orbit (500-2000km) is the most congested, with satellites of various sizes — ranging from 10cm cubes to ones that are the size of a car or larger. However, the decision to manoeuvre is not very easy. Especially, when the satellite is performing a strategic role that requires it to be at a particular spot. Because the manoeuvre would affect the schedule of the pre-planned operation of surveillance (in whatever form). In this case, Roscosmos has said that both are remote sensing satellites, which implies that they in all likelihood used for strategic purposes. The space community has been divided over the prediction models for tracking satellites in orbit. The existing ones are the European Model, American model, Russian model, whereas the Indian model is under development. The reason that the space community hotly debates the efficiency of the models is that there are differences between the calculations made using each model. Also read| India to launch Bhutanese satellite; train its engineers Let’s assume, in this case, the Indian model said that the satellites would be 1km apart, whereas the Russian model would have predicted that they would be 500m apart. It is also highly likely that in reality, both models went wrong and the satellites get closer than the prediction showed. Hence, there is no single model that works accurately, as each one can provide a different result. Another factor that could impact prediction models in low earth orbits is the impact of the drag from the Earth's atmosphere. Some interesting questions in this scenario are - how or why did the respective agencies allow the satellites to get this close? Were there predictions that both sides performed? Given the close Indo-Russian cooperation on space technology, did the agencies foresee this close shave and coordinate? Most importantly, why would the Russian agency go public with this information, rather than discuss with ISRO officials. Or did both the agencies have critical strategic functions that required the satellites to remain exactly in their respective orbits, despite knowing that they would make a close pass. Also read| ISRO launches PSLV-C49 earth imaging satellite into space Is it possible that the agencies wanted to allow a close pass and then take a call on any possible manoeuvre in future? The real danger posed by a possible collision of satellites would be the debris of varying sizes scattered across space in all directions, in high-speeds with high potential of harming other satellites. The last large collision of satellites happened in 2009, when a US commercial Iridium spacecraft hit a defunct Russian satellite over Siberia, producing thousands of pieces of debris. As of January 2020, there are around 2,000 active satellites orbiting the earth. There are also more than 23,000 pieces of debris larger than 10cm (4inches) in orbit, according to NASA. WION did not receive a response from top ISRO officials, despite multiple attempts to reach out. The story will be updated if and when an ISRO response is available.

Indian ISRO satellite flew dangerously close to Russian sat, says Roscosmos

Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/prime-minister-narendra-modi-extends-new-year-greetings-to-bangladesh-pm-sheikh-hasina-271462">Narendra Modi</a> on Friday said that he will always remember the manner in which the nation "celebrated science, the space program and the strengths of scientists" during the Chandrayaan-2 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-lunar-mission-chandrayaan-3-to-launch-in-november-2020-isro-271367">mission</a> in September last year. 
 
"I am very happy that one of my first programmes at the start of the New Year and new decade is linked to science, technology and innovation. This programme is happening in Bengaluru, a city associated with science and innovation," Prime Minister Modi said here while addressing the 107th session of Indian Science Congress. 
 
"The last time I had come to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/gaganyaan-mission-four-astronauts-selected-to-undergo-training-in-russia-says-isro-chief-k-sivan-271425">Bengaluru</a> was when the eyes of the nation were set on Chandrayaan-2. That time, the manner in which our nation celebrated science, our space program and the strengths of our scientists will always be a part of my memory," he said. 
 
He went on to add, "When we start the year 2020 with positivity and optimism of science and technology-driven development, we take one more step in fulfilling our dream." 
 
In September last year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had addressed the nation from ISRO Control Centre here, after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/isro-planning-to-launch-satellite-aditya-to-study-sun-pm-modi-270841">ISRO</a> lost communication with 'Vikram' lander of Chandrayaan 2 moments before it was preparing to make a soft-landing on the south pole region of the Moon. 
 
"Don't lose hope. Be courageous. There are ups and downs in life. What you all have done is not a small thing. You have done a great service to the country, science and mankind. I am with you. I wish you all the best," the Prime Minister had told the scientists.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that he will always remember the manner in which the nation "celebrated science, the space program and the strengths of scientists" during the Chandrayaan-2 mission in September last year.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that he will always remember the manner in which the nation "celebrated science, the space program and the strengths of scientists" during the Chandrayaan-2 mission in September last year. "I am very happy that one of my first programmes at the start of the New Year and new decade is linked to science, technology and innovation. This programme is happening in Bengaluru, a city associated with science and innovation," Prime Minister Modi said here while addressing the 107th session of Indian Science Congress. "The last time I had come to Bengaluru was when the eyes of the nation were set on Chandrayaan-2. That time, the manner in which our nation celebrated science, our space program and the strengths of our scientists will always be a part of my memory," he said. He went on to add, "When we start the year 2020 with positivity and optimism of science and technology-driven development, we take one more step in fulfilling our dream." In September last year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had addressed the nation from ISRO Control Centre here, after ISRO lost communication with 'Vikram' lander of Chandrayaan 2 moments before it was preparing to make a soft-landing on the south pole region of the Moon. "Don't lose hope. Be courageous. There are ups and downs in life. What you all have done is not a small thing. You have done a great service to the country, science and mankind. I am with you. I wish you all the best," the Prime Minister had told the scientists.

Nation celebrated science, space program and strength of scientists during Chandrayan mission-2: PM Modi

Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) today&nbsp;successfully placed 20 satellites in orbit with its flagship launch vehicle, PSLV C-34 from Sriharikota island in southern India. 
 
ISRO&#39;s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV)-C34 took off at 9:26 am (0456 GMT) from Satish Dhawan Space Center carrying 17 foreign and three indigenous satellites. 
 
The mission lasted for 26 and a half minutes by which time all satellites were put into a polar synchronous orbit of 505 kilometres&nbsp;height one by one. 
 
The 320 tonne PSLV C-34 carried 17 foreign small satellites from Canada, Indonesia, Germany and the US but the main passenger was a 727 kilogram&nbsp;Indian earth observation satellite called Cartosat, which can take images at sub-meter resolution. The rocket also placed two Indian academic community built satellites, Sathyabhamasat and Swayam in the space. 
 
With 20 satellites, the Indian space agency has beaten its previous record of placing 10 satellites in April 2008. 
 
ISRO Chairman A S Kiran Kumar called it a major accomplishment for the Indian space agency. 
 
&quot;Today, PSLV C34 has done its job and we have the current generation of earth observation satellite, Cartosat-2 series and along with this, another 17 satellites have been put into the orbit,&quot; said Kumar. 
 
Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi congratulated ISRO team on the historic achievement. 
 
&quot;20 satellites in a go! @isro continues to break new barriers. Hearty congratulations to our scientists on the monumental accomplishment,&quot; read his tweet. 
 
Currently, Russia holds the world record for placing the most number of satellites in a single launch. Its Dnepr rocket launched 37 satellites in 2014. 
 
Till date India has successfully launched 57 foreign satellites. 
 
(Reuters)

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated ISRO and described today's launch as a 'monumental' accomplishment

Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) today successfully placed 20 satellites in orbit with its flagship launch vehicle, PSLV C-34 from Sriharikota island in southern India. ISRO's Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV)-C34 took off at 9:26 am (0456 GMT) from Satish Dhawan Space Center carrying 17 foreign and three indigenous satellites. The mission lasted for 26 and a half minutes by which time all satellites were put into a polar synchronous orbit of 505 kilometres height one by one. The 320 tonne PSLV C-34 carried 17 foreign small satellites from Canada, Indonesia, Germany and the US but the main passenger was a 727 kilogram Indian earth observation satellite called Cartosat, which can take images at sub-meter resolution. The rocket also placed two Indian academic community built satellites, Sathyabhamasat and Swayam in the space. With 20 satellites, the Indian space agency has beaten its previous record of placing 10 satellites in April 2008. ISRO Chairman A S Kiran Kumar called it a major accomplishment for the Indian space agency. "Today, PSLV C34 has done its job and we have the current generation of earth observation satellite, Cartosat-2 series and along with this, another 17 satellites have been put into the orbit," said Kumar. Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi congratulated ISRO team on the historic achievement. "20 satellites in a go! @isro continues to break new barriers. Hearty congratulations to our scientists on the monumental accomplishment," read his tweet. Currently, Russia holds the world record for placing the most number of satellites in a single launch. Its Dnepr rocket launched 37 satellites in 2014. Till date India has successfully launched 57 foreign satellites. (Reuters)

Indian Space Research Organisation launches 20 satellites in succession

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