(a) whether high resolution satellites capable of continuously
monitoring major swathes along India’s borders are proposed to be
launched;
(b) If so, the details thereof;
(c) whether the above satellites are likely to transmit
continuous and uninterrupted live pictures;
(d) if so, the details thereof;
(e) whether the above system is likely to help control
aviation mishaps; and
(f) if so, the details thereof?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY PERSONNEL,PG & PENSIONS AND IN
THE PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE(SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY):
(a) & (b) Yes Sir. ISRO proposes to launch a GEO imaging
satellite (GISAT) in geostationary orbit of 36,000 km to provide
continuous imaging of the country, including border areas, under
cloud free condition. However, it provides imagery of medium spatial
resolution of 50 meter, intended for disaster management support,
country’s natural resources monitoring and other applications of
strategic importance.
(c) & (d) The GEO imaging satellite will provide the pictures/images
of areas of interest on near real time basis. That is, selected Sector-wise
imaging every 5 minutes and entire Indian landmass every 30 minutes at
50m spatial resolution.
(e) & (f) No Sir. However, a satellite based search and rescue
system could help to detect aviation mishaps if standard distress alert
beacons are carried on board. The satellite picks up the distress signals
from beacons and alerts the Rescue Coordination Centres. The search and
rescue activities are carried out by Coast Guard, Navy, Army and Air Force.