India's AstroSat Space Observatory
UPSC Relevance
Prelims: Science and Technology (Space Technology, Space Missions and Observatories - AstroSat; Indian Space Research Organisation - ISRO; Launch Vehicles - PSLV); General Science (Electromagnetic Spectrum).
Mains:
General Studies Paper 3 (S&T): Achievements of Indians in science & technology; Indigenization of technology and developing new technology; Awareness in the fields of Space. AstroSat is a prime example of India's indigenous achievements in space science.
Key Highlights from the News
India's first dedicated space astronomy observatory, AstroSat, celebrates its tenth year of operation in space. 🛰️
AstroSat was launched on September 28, 2015, using the PSLV-C30 rocket.
It is India's first mission capable of observing the universe simultaneously in multi-wavelengths, including visible, ultraviolet, and X-ray.
It was built under the leadership of ISRO, with the collaborative effort of leading astronomical institutions in the country such as IUCAA, TIFR, IIA, and RRI.
In these ten years, AstroSat has made crucial discoveries about black holes, neutron stars, and distant galaxies.
Although it was aimed for a five-year operational life, its continued functionality for ten years is a major achievement.
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