As of June 2023, India has launched 129 satellites of Indian origin and 342 foreign satellites belonging to 36 countries. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is the government agency responsible for India's space program. ISRO has launched satellites using a variety of launch vehicles, including the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV), and the Space Launch Vehicle (SLV).
The first Indian satellite, Aryabhata, was launched in 1975. Aryabhata was a scientific satellite that was used to study the Earth's atmosphere and the Sun. Since then, India has launched a wide variety of satellites, including communication satellites, remote sensing satellites, and navigation satellites.
India's space program has made significant contributions to the development of the country. Satellites have been used to improve telecommunications, provide disaster relief, and monitor the environment. India's space program has also helped to boost the country's economy and to improve its international standing.
Here are some of the most important Indian satellites:
- Aryabhata: The first Indian satellite, launched in 1975.
- INSAT: A series of communication satellites that have been used to improve telecommunications in India.
- IRS: A series of remote sensing satellites that have been used to map the Earth's surface and to monitor the environment.
India possesses a highly accomplished space program that has achieved remarkable success globally. With a rich heritage of launching satellites, India's space program has been instrumental in advancing the nation's progress. It has made notable contributions to diverse domains such as communication, navigation, and broadcasting through its fleet of geostationary satellites known as GSAT. In addition, India's space program operates the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), a reliable launch vehicle, and the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV), a heavy-lift vehicle. This impressive track record, coupled with India's continuous advancements, indicates that its space program will continue to flourish and play a pivotal role in shaping the nation's future.