# Bhaskara I

> Earth observation satellite, launched 1979

**Wikidata**: [Q65515867](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q65515867)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/bhaskara-i-q65515867

## Summary
Bhaskara I is an Earth observation satellite launched by India in 1979. It was the first Indian satellite designed for remote sensing and was part of the Bhaskara series, demonstrating India's early capabilities in space-based Earth monitoring.

## Key Facts
- Launched on June 7, 1979, from Kapustin Yar, Soviet Union, using a Kosmos-3M rocket
- Operated by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)
- Mass: 442 kilograms
- Orbital parameters: Apoapsis of 541 km, periapsis of 519 km, orbital inclination of 50.6 degrees
- Part of the Bhaskara satellite series, with Bhaskara I being the first in the series
- COSPAR ID: 1979-051A
- Deorbited in 1989
- Primary mission: Earth observation and remote sensing

## FAQs
### Q: What was Bhaskara I's primary purpose?
A: Bhaskara I was primarily an Earth observation satellite designed to monitor and study Earth's surface from orbit.

### Q: Who launched Bhaskara I, and when?
A: Bhaskara I was launched by India on June 7, 1979, using a Kosmos-3M rocket from Kapustin Yar, Soviet Union.

### Q: What was unique about Bhaskara I?
A: Bhaskara I was India's first dedicated Earth observation satellite, marking a significant milestone in the country's space program.

### Q: How long did Bhaskara I operate?
A: Bhaskara I remained operational until it deorbited in 1989.

### Q: What organization operated Bhaskara I?
A: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) operated Bhaskara I.

## Why It Matters
Bhaskara I was a pivotal development in India's space program, serving as the first Indian satellite dedicated to Earth observation. Launched in 1979, it demonstrated India's growing capability in remote sensing and space-based Earth monitoring. The satellite's success laid the foundation for future Indian missions, including the more advanced Bhaskara II and III satellites. Bhaskara I's mission highlighted India's commitment to space exploration and technological advancement, contributing to the nation's reputation in the global space community.

## Notable For
- First Indian Earth observation satellite
- Part of the Bhaskara series, which included subsequent satellites
- Operated by ISRO, India's primary space agency
- Launched using a Kosmos-3M rocket from the Soviet Union
- Deorbited in 1989 after nearly a decade of operation

## Body
### Mission Overview
Bhaskara I was launched on June 7, 1979, from Kapustin Yar in the Soviet Union using a Kosmos-3M rocket. The satellite was operated by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and was part of the Bhaskara series, with Bhaskara I being the first in the series. The primary mission of Bhaskara I was Earth observation and remote sensing, contributing to India's early efforts in space-based Earth monitoring.

### Technical Specifications
Bhaskara I had a mass of 442 kilograms and operated in a low Earth orbit with an apoapsis of 541 km, a periapsis of 519 km, and an orbital inclination of 50.6 degrees. The satellite's design and capabilities were significant for its time, marking a milestone in India's space program.

### Operational History
Bhaskara I remained operational until it deorbited in 1989. During its operational period, it played a crucial role in India's early space-based Earth observation efforts. The satellite's success paved the way for future Indian missions, including the more advanced Bhaskara II and III satellites.

### Significance
Bhaskara I was a key development in India's space program, demonstrating the country's capability in Earth observation and remote sensing. The satellite's launch and operation were significant milestones in India's journey towards becoming a major player in the global space community. Bhaskara I's mission laid the groundwork for future Indian space-based Earth observation efforts.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report
2. [Source](https://www.isro.gov.in/Spacecraft/bhaskara-i)
3. Quora