The evolution of satellite-based remote-sensing capabilities in India

This paper describes the Indian experience in evolving a satellite-based remote-sensing system. The experimental Earth observation programme represented by the Bhaskara-1 and -2 satellites are discussed to highlight the different components of a satellite-based remote-sensing mission. This is followed by a presentation of the key elements of the Indian Remote Sensing (IRS) satellite mission with particular reference to the details of IRS-1, the first of the planned satellites. IRS-1 represents a major step in the transition from an experimental to an operational satellite-based remote-sensing system in India.