The INSAT saga: India's eyes in the sky
The third generation INSAT-3A added a new dimension and incorporated search and rescue services.
INSAT-3A's transponder for Satellite Aided Search and Rescue is part of India's contribution to the international Satellite Aided Search and Rescue programme. INSAT-3B had what it took to fill in for the failed INSAT-2D and hence was launched ahead of 3A.
It was primarily intended for business communication, developmental communication and mobile communication. As INSAT-2C was nearing the end of life, the 3C was put in the orbit as it had all the capabilities of 2C.
INSAT-3E was launched within two months after Madhavan Nair took over as chairman. Nair, in the same period, also oversaw two more successful launches.
INSAT-3E gave a fillip to communication services and held fort till the 4-series came along.
Image: (Left) Dr K Kasturirangan (Right) Madhavan Nair
Photograph: Rediff Archives and Getty Images