New Delhi: The Department of Space is planning to augment INSAT system in view of the increasing demand for transponders for broadcasting and telecommunications purposes.

In a Parliamentary committee report, presented in Lok Sabha on December 16, the department said that the activity had been planned after interaction with users in both government and non-government sectors. Transponder requirements during 10th plan period had been assessed and accordingly 4th generation INSAT-4 satellites had been planned.

According to the plan, INSAT-3E is to be launched in early next year while the next generation of INSAT-4 series have been planned for the tenth plan period. INSAT-4A and 4B configurations have been finalised, it said.

Stating that these satellites would augment INSAT space segment capacity to meet the increasing demand for transponders in various sectors including social sectors, the department said that GSAT-3 and GSAT-4 satellites are planned for launch onboard Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) during 2003-05.

Through these developmental flights, the GSLV is expected to be ready for operational flight capable of launching 2-tonne weight satellite into geostationary transfer orbit (GTO), which will be fully utilised for launching INSAT-4 satellites.

Detailed studies on the configuration of an Advanced Communication Technology Satellite (ACTS), planned for launch in the early part of 11th Plan period have also been initiated, the department said.

The committee said that there was a need for programmes which might help in providing accurate and reliable prediction of the monsoon.

PTI