Developments in ISRO space platforms capability

The experimental satellites launched by the ISRO in the 1970s are described and semi-operational and operational spacecraft in the 1980s are discussed. The satellites Aryabhata, Bhaskara I and II, the Rohini series, and the Ariane Passenger Payload Experiment served to define passive thermal controls, radio links, spacecraft control, sensor performance, and television broadcasting. It is expected that operational satellites for communications, remote sensing, and meteorological monitoring will be launched in the 1980s. Structural weight will be reduced with carbon composites, Ti, and fiberglass. Active and semi-active thermal control systems will be introduced, as will star sensors for 0.01 deg positioning accuracy, spectral remote sensing instruments, reaction wheel stabilization, and a VHHR for remote sensing.