NASA-ISRO's NISAR mission: India and US set to launch world's most expensive Earth-mapping satellite on July 30

NISAR Satellite (Image: NASA)

A major space partnership is set to take flight. ISRO and NASA will launch the NISAR satellite on July 30 at 5.40pm. The launch will take place from Sriharikota’s Satish Dhawan Space Centre. India’s GSLV-F16 rocket will carry NISAR into low Earth orbit. The satellite will orbit 743 kilometres above the planet. It will travel along a Sun-synchronous path with a 98.4-degree tilt.

What NISAR Hopes to Achieve
NISAR is the first Earth observation satellite by India and the US. The observatory will circle the globe once every 12 days. Its main task is to study changes across Earth’s surface. From ice sheets to forests, nothing will be out of view. The satellite will help track earthquakes, volcanoes, and landslides. NISAR will also monitor rising sea levels and groundwater shifts.

It uses both L-band and S-band radar for imaging. These allow it to scan landforms with great detail. Scientists will get consistent data over time and place. NISAR can measure crop growth, forest biomass, and wetland changes. It will also map changes in Greenland and Antarctic ice. Sea ice and mountain glaciers will come under close study too.

Preparing for Science Operations
The first 90 days will be used for testing systems. This phase, known as In-Orbit Checkout, ensures all instruments work well. Once complete, the satellite will begin science missions. The mission is expected to deepen knowledge about Earth’s dynamics. It also reflects growing global ties in space research. With NASA and ISRO working together, the mission sets a strong precedent.