Communication Satellites 

Meaning: Communication satellites are man-made satellites that provide communication links between different locations on Earth and form an important part of modern communication systems.

Major Components: They generally consist of solar cells, batteries, antennas, transponders, orientation and propulsion systems.

INSAT System: India’s Indian National Satellite (INSAT) system is one of the major domestic communication satellite systems in the Asia-Pacific region and supports multiple communication-related services.

Applications of INSAT: INSAT supports telecommunications, television broadcasting, satellite news gathering, weather forecasting, disaster warning, search and rescue, and other societal applications.

GSAT Satellites: ISRO developed GSAT satellites to augment INSAT capacity and provide advanced telecommunications services such as broadband connectivity and mobile communication.

INSAT vs GSAT: INSAT satellites are multipurpose, whereas GSAT satellites are primarily designed for telecommunication services.

Orbit: Both INSAT and GSAT communication satellites are primarily placed in geosynchronous orbit, enabling continuous and reliable communication coverage over large areas.

With reference to Communication Satellites in India, consider the following statements:

  1. INSAT satellites are generally multipurpose satellites serving communication and other societal applications.
  2. GSAT satellites were developed by ISRO to augment communication capacity and provide advanced telecommunication services.
  3. Both INSAT and GSAT satellites are primarily placed in geosynchronous orbit.
  4. GSAT satellites are exclusively used for weather forecasting and disaster warning.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1, 2 and 3 only

(b) 1 and 4 only

(c) 2 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Answer: (a)