ISRO Revolutionising Ship Detection by Developing Advanced Geo Imaging Satellite (A-GISAT)

By R. Anil Kumar

• ISRO Successfully develops Advanced Geo-Imaging Satellite (A-GISAT)
• Revolutionises Ship detection capabilities through this state-of-the-art, cutting edge satellite

Bangalore, July 4. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), which is involved in science, engineering and technology to harvest the benefits of outer space for India and the mankind, has successfully developed Advanced Geo-Imaging Satellite (A-GISAT). This is a significant step towards technological advancement, a cutting edge satellite that promises to revolutionise ship detection capabilities.

The A- GISAT is specifically designed and equipped with the state-of-the-art features for detection of ships with a size greater than 20 meters and this remarkable achievement positions ISRO at the forefront of satellite technology and further solidifies India’s position in the global space industry.

One of the key capabilities of A-GISAT is its advanced optical imaging system which operates from a geo-stationary orbit. The geo-stationary vantage point allows the satellite to remain fixed relative to the earth’s surface, enabling continuous and uninterrupted monitoring of large areas.

The high resolution imaging capabilities of A-GISAT empower it to capture detailed imagery of the Earth’s surface making it an ideal tool for ship detection and tracking.

The A-GISAT is combined with cutting edge techniques, including detection and monitoring of long and narrow features and by analysing satellite imagery the A-GISAT can identify and track ships based on their size, shape and other distinctive characters.

This feature is particularly beneficial for maritime surveillance, enabling authorities to detect and monitor large vessels engaged in various activities such as shipping, fishing and also involved in other illicit operations.

The other noteworthy capability of A-GISAT is its advanced change detection and cueing algorithms. These algorithms allow the satellite to identify and highlight significant changes that occur a large area. This functionality proves invaluable in detecting environmental changes such as oil spills and other hazardous events, facilitating timely response and mitigation measures.

The A-GISAT change detection and cueing features enable authorities to swiftly identify and respond to potential threats to the marine ecosystem, and thereby ensuring the preservation of natural resources.

Above all, the A-GISAT excels in detecting thermal signatures from deep waters during night-time operations. By leveraging its advanced thermal imaging capabilities, the satellite can detect and monitor variations in water temperatures, thereby helping Scientists and Researchers study oceanic phenomena such as currents upwelling and other crucial environmental factors.

This real-time monitoring of thermal signatures enables a better understanding of the oceanic ecosystem and aids in the development of sustainable marine practices.

(With inputs from ISRO)