ISRO to launch Earth-watching satellite EOS-09 on May 18 to boost India’s Border Security

INSAT-3DS Imager first-image (false colour composite) Red (Visible), Green (Short Wave Infrared), Blue (Mid Infrared) (Image: ISRO)

India is set to launch EOS-09, a high-powered radar satellite. It will offer sharper images and faster warnings in times of crisis. From floods to border surveillance, the satellite will provide a sure hand.

All-Weather Imaging Powers National Security

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will launch EOS-09, alternatively referred to as RISAT-1B, on May 18. The mission is set for 6:59 am from Sriharikota. The satellite will be launched aboard the PSLV-C61 rocket.

The satellite weighs approximately 1,710 kilograms and will go into a sun-synchronous orbit. This provides consistent lighting conditions for routine imaging operations. The most significant feature of EOS-09 is its C-band synthetic aperture radar.

This radar produces crisp images in any weather conditions, clouds, rain, or even night. This is better than optical cameras, which are weather-dependent and rely on good visibility. With five modes, EOS-09 is able to transition between clear close-ups and scans of extensive areas.

The radar can see objects just a metre wide. It is, therefore, suitable for tracking suspect activity on the borders of India. The officials are of the view that it will be able to track infiltration and movements near Pakistan and China.

Helping Farmers, Forests and Disaster Teams

EOS-09 will serve more than military needs. It can assist with crop monitoring and forestry surveys. Scientists will use its data to study soil moisture and geology. Sea ice and coastal changes can also be tracked.

The radar's round-the-clock coverage is a boost for disaster response. The satellite will be a strong partner in flood monitoring and relief planning.

EOS-09 succeeds previous satellites such as RISAT-1 and joins ISRO's expanding fleet. It joins other satellites such as Resourcesat, Cartosat, and the RISAT-2B series. All of them contribute to India's ability to control land, weather and security at fast speeds.

Members of Parliament will witness the launch to commemorate its significance. They do so in order to reflect the increasing influence of space in day-to-day governance.

As satellite-based technologies spread, EOS-09 is another step in that direction. With its piercing radar vision, it brings India nearer to safer skies and smarter planning.