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EOS-09 (RISAT-1B): A Leap in India's Surveillance Capabilities

The Role of EOS-09 in Enhancing India's Monitoring Systems

EOS-09 (RISAT-1B): A Leap in India's Surveillance Capabilities

  • 18 May, 2025
  • 251

What is EOS-09 and its Purpose?

EOS-09, also known as RISAT-1B, is a cutting-edge radar imaging satellite developed by ISRO. Its primary objective is to enhance India’s border and coastal surveillance capabilities. This satellite captures high-resolution images of the Earth's surface under all weather conditions, ensuring effective monitoring both day and night.

Launch Details of EOS-09

The launch of EOS-09 is scheduled for May 18, utilizing the PSLV-C61 mission. The launch will take place from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre located in Sriharikota.

Importance of C-band Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR)

The C-band SAR technology is crucial for the functionality of EOS-09. It enables the satellite to capture clear images even through clouds, fog, and darkness. This capability is essential for detecting intrusions and tracking enemy movements, which is vital for anti-terrorist operations. For instance, EOS-09 can monitor infiltration attempts along the Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan during heavy monsoons or at night.

Differences Between EOS-09 and Optical Satellites

Unlike regular optical satellites, which cannot operate effectively in cloudy conditions or at night, EOS-09 utilizes radar technology to provide continuous surveillance. This reliability ensures that even when optical satellites may overlook activities due to adverse weather, EOS-09 can capture radar images and alert security forces promptly.

Regions Benefiting from EOS-09’s Surveillance

EOS-09 will significantly benefit regions along India’s borders with Pakistan and China, as well as the vast Indian coastline. For example, it can effectively monitor unusual boat movements along the Gujarat coast or troop movements in Ladakh, thereby enhancing national security.

Non-Military Applications of EOS-09

In addition to military uses, EOS-09 has a wide range of applications in non-military fields. It can aid in agriculture, forestry, monitoring water bodies, soil moisture studies, geology, and disaster management. For instance, it can assist in assessing crop health or tracking flooded areas during cyclones.

EOS-09 in the Context of a Larger Satellite Series

EOS-09 is part of a larger series of satellites and serves as a follow-on to RISAT-1. It works in conjunction with other important satellites such as RISAT-2B, Cartosat, and Resourcesat, collectively enhancing India’s Earth observation capabilities.

Impact of Previous RISAT Satellites

Previous RISAT satellites have played a significant role in critical missions. They provided crucial imagery for India’s surgical strikes in 2016 in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and the 2019 Balakot airstrike, facilitating real-time planning and execution of these operations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the significance of EOS-09 for India's security?
Answer: EOS-09 enhances India's security by providing all-weather surveillance, crucial for monitoring border intrusions and tracking enemy movements effectively.

Q2. How does the C-band SAR technology benefit EOS-09?
Answer: The C-band SAR allows EOS-09 to capture high-resolution images in any weather, ensuring continuous surveillance during day and night, even in poor visibility conditions.

Q3. Can EOS-09 assist in civilian applications?
Answer: Yes, EOS-09 supports various civilian applications, including agriculture monitoring, disaster management, and environmental studies, alongside its military functions.

Q4. What are the launch details for EOS-09?
Answer: EOS-09 is scheduled to be launched on May 18 using the PSLV-C61 rocket from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota.

Q5. How has EOS-09 contributed to previous military operations?
Answer: EOS-09 and its predecessors have provided critical images for military operations, including the 2016 surgical strikes and the 2019 Balakot airstrike, aiding in real-time planning.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is the primary function of EOS-09?
A) Crop monitoring
B) Border surveillance
C) Weather forecasting
D) Oceanography
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: When is EOS-09 scheduled to be launched?
A) April 15
B) May 18
C) June 10
D) July 25
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: Which technology allows EOS-09 to work effectively in poor visibility?
A) Optical imaging
B) Infrared sensors
C) C-band SAR
D) Lidar technology
Correct Answer: C

Question 4: EOS-09 is part of which satellite series?
A) RISAT-2B
B) Cartosat
C) Resourcesat
D) All of the above
Correct Answer: D

Question 5: Which of the following applications is NOT associated with EOS-09?
A) Disaster management
B) Crop health assessment
C) Weather prediction
D) Border tracking
Correct Answer: C

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