INSAT-3DS

INSAT-3DS is an Indian meteorological satellite built by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). The satellite is a follow on of INSAT-3DR mission. The satellite was launched on 17 February 2024 at 17:35 IST       from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre.

Launch
The INSAT-3DS satellite was initially planned to be launched in January 2024 but was later delayed to February. The satellite was launched via the GSLV-F14 rocket on 17 February 2024 at 17:35 IST (12:05 UTC). This was the first time the extended version of Cryogenic upper stage of the GSLV rocket, CUS-15 was flown with environment friendly white fairing. Five days later, all four planned Liquid Apogee Motor (LAM) firings were completed. The spacecraft is now in the geosynchronous orbit. It is expected to reach the In Orbit Testing (IOT) location by Feb 28, 2024, following which it will go to its designated orbital slot.