# INSAT-3D

> 39216

**Wikidata**: [Q5972407](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q5972407)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/INSAT-3D)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/insat-3d

## Summary
INSAT-3D is an Indian satellite designed for both meteorological observation and telecommunications. Launched on July 25, 2013, it is operated by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and resides in a geostationary orbit. The satellite was deployed using an Ariane 5 ECA launch vehicle from the ELA-3 launch site.

## Key Facts
- **Operator:** Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)
- **Country:** India
- **Launch Date:** July 25, 2013
- **Launch Vehicle:** Ariane 5 ECA
- **COSPAR ID:** 2013-038B
- **Satellite Catalog Number:** 39216
- **Orbit Type:** Geostationary orbit
- **Instance of:** Communications satellite, Weather satellite
- **Launch Site:** ELA-3 (Ariane Launch Area 3)
- **Aliases:** Insat 3D

## FAQs
### Q: What is the primary function of INSAT-3D?
A: INSAT-3D functions as a hybrid satellite serving two primary roles: it is a weather satellite designed to monitor weather and climate, and a communications satellite designed for telecommunications.

### Q: When and how was INSAT-3D launched?
A: INSAT-3D was launched on July 25, 2013, aboard a European Ariane 5 ECA launch vehicle from the ELA-3 launch complex.

### Q: Who owns and operates INSAT-3D?
A: The satellite is owned and operated by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).

## Why It Matters
INSAT-3D plays a significant role in India's space infrastructure by combining critical weather monitoring capabilities with telecommunications functionality. As a weather satellite, it provides essential data for monitoring climate and meteorological conditions, which is vital for a geographically diverse region like India. This data supports weather forecasting, disaster management, and agricultural planning. Simultaneously, its classification as a communications satellite allows it to contribute to the nation's telecommunication network. The satellite's placement in geostationary orbit ensures continuous coverage over the region. The mission also highlights international collaboration in the space sector, as the Indian satellite was launched using a European Ariane 5 ECA vehicle. Since its deployment in 2013, INSAT-3D (Catalog Number 39216) has served as a key orbital asset for the Indian Space Research Organisation.

## Notable For
- **Dual Classification:** Uniquely classified as both a weather satellite and a communications satellite, serving distinct but complementary missions.
- **European Launch:** Deployed via the Ariane 5 ECA, a heavy-lift European launch vehicle, rather than an indigenous Indian launch system.
- **Geostationary Operations:** Positioned in geostationary orbit to maintain a fixed footprint relative to the Earth for continuous observation and communication.
- **ISRO Management:** A distinct asset within the fleet operated by the Indian Space Research Organisation.

## Body
### Identity and Classification
INSAT-3D is identified in space catalogs under the Satellite Catalog Number (SCN) **39216** and the international designator **2013-038B**. It is an artificial satellite that holds a dual classification as both a **communications satellite** and a **weather satellite**. This dual nature allows it to perform tasks ranging from telecommunications relay to the monitoring of weather and climate patterns. It is alternatively spelled as "Insat 3D" in some records.

### Ownership and Operation
The satellite is a national asset of **India**. It is wholly owned and operated by the **Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)**. The management and mission execution fall under the purview of this agency, which is responsible for the satellite's data and operational status.

### Launch and Deployment
INSAT-3D was successfully launched on **July 25, 2013**. The launch event is classified as a "rocket launch" and marked the beginning of the satellite's operational life.
- **Launch Vehicle:** The satellite was lifted into space by the **Ariane 5 ECA**, a European heavy-lift launch vehicle.
- **Launch Site:** The launch originated from **ELA-3** (Ensemble de Lancement Ariane 3), a prominent launch pad utilized for the Ariane rocket family.

### Orbital Characteristics
Following its deployment, INSAT-3D was positioned in a **geostationary orbit**. This orbit allows the satellite to match the Earth's rotation, keeping it fixed over a specific longitude to provide continuous service to the region below.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report
2. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
3. Quora