UPSC Prelims 2006 Q64: Science & Technology – Space Technology & Astronomy
Consider the following statements in respect of India's advanced satellite INSAT - 4A :
1. INSAT - 4A was launched in December, 2005 from New Mexico.
2. The European commercial launch service provider Arianespace was associated with the launch
of INSAT - 4A.
3. Tata - Sky - a digital cable service provider is associated with DTH television broadcasting
services from INSAT - 4A.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
- (a) 1, 2 and 3
- (b) 1 and 2, only
- (c) 2 and 3, only
- (d) 1 and 3, only
Answer: (c) 2 and 3, only
Explanation
INSAT-4A
| Statement | Verdict | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Launched in December 2005 from New Mexico | False | Launched on 22 December 2005 from Kourou, French Guiana, not New Mexico |
| 2. Arianespace was associated with the launch | True | Launched by Ariane-5, operated by Arianespace |
| 3. Tata Sky DTH service uses INSAT-4A | True | Tata Sky, a DTH broadcaster, uses transponders on INSAT-4A |
Statements 2 and 3 are correct.
Answer: (c) 2 and 3, only.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. Statement 1 is false because the launch was from French Guiana.
- (b) Incorrect. Statement 1 is false, and statement 3 is true.
- (c) CORRECT. Arianespace launched INSAT-4A and Tata Sky uses its DTH capacity; the launch was not from New Mexico.
- (d) Incorrect. Statement 1 is false, so this option fails.
Key point
INSAT-4A was launched from Kourou, French Guiana by Arianespace's Ariane-5 and supports Tata Sky DTH services.
Remember
INSAT-4A: Kourou launch, Arianespace, Tata Sky DTH.
Common mistakes
- Placing the launch in the USA instead of French Guiana.
- Forgetting that India used Arianespace for heavy communication satellites.
- Confusing INSAT-4A with the GSAT series.
Exam tip
Heavy Indian satellites in this period flew on Ariane-5 from Kourou, French Guiana.
Sources
- ISRO — INSAT-4A mission details, December 2005
- Department of Space, Government of India — Annual Report 2005–06