# Rohini Satellite RS-D1
**Wikidata**: [Q65516020](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q65516020)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/rohini-satellite-rs-d1

## Summary
Rohini Satellite RS-D1 is an Earth observation satellite launched by India in 1981 as part of the Rohini Satellite Series. It was launched from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre using the Satellite Launch Vehicle 3 (SLV-3) and operated by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).

## Key Facts
- **Class**: Earth observation satellite
- **Part of**: Rohini Satellite Series
- **Mass**: 38 kilograms
- **Apoapsis**: 418 kilometres
- **Periapsis**: 186 kilometres
- **Orbital inclination**: 46 degrees
- **Launch date**: May 31, 1981
- **Launch vehicle**: Satellite Launch Vehicle 3 (SLV-3)
- **Launch site**: Satish Dhawan Space Centre SLV Launch Pad
- **Operator/Owner/Manufacturer**: Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)
- **Orbit**: Low Earth orbit
- **Decay date**: June 9, 1981
- **COSPAR ID**: 1981-051A

## FAQs
### Q: What was the purpose of the Rohini Satellite RS-D1?
A: The Rohini Satellite RS-D1 was an Earth observation satellite designed to study Earth from orbit, specifically as part of India's early satellite program.

### Q: Who launched the Rohini Satellite RS-D1?
A: The Rohini Satellite RS-D1 was launched by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) using the Satellite Launch Vehicle 3 (SLV-3) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre.

### Q: How long did the Rohini Satellite RS-D1 remain in orbit?
A: The satellite remained in orbit until June 9, 1981, when it decayed.

### Q: What was the orbital inclination of the Rohini Satellite RS-D1?
A: The satellite had an orbital inclination of 46 degrees.

### Q: What was the mass of the Rohini Satellite RS-D1?
A: The satellite had a mass of 38 kilograms.

## Why It Matters
The Rohini Satellite RS-D1 was a significant milestone in India's space program, marking the country's first successful Earth observation satellite. Launched as part of the Rohini Satellite Series, it demonstrated India's growing capability in satellite technology and Earth observation. The satellite's successful deployment and operation contributed to ISRO's reputation for reliability and innovation in space exploration. Despite its short operational lifespan, RS-D1 laid the groundwork for future Indian satellite missions, including more advanced Earth observation and communication satellites.

## Notable For
- **First Indian Earth Observation Satellite**: RS-D1 was India's first satellite specifically designed for Earth observation, part of the Rohini series.
- **Successful Launch with SLV-3**: It was launched using the Satellite Launch Vehicle 3 (SLV-3), which was a critical step in India's early rocket development.
- **Short but Impactful Mission**: Despite its brief operational period, RS-D1 provided valuable data and experience for future satellite missions.
- **Contribution to ISRO's Reputation**: The satellite's success helped establish ISRO as a credible player in the global space community.
- **Part of India's Early Space Program**: RS-D1 was a key part of India's early efforts to develop indigenous satellite technology.

## Body
### Overview
Rohini Satellite RS-D1 was an Earth observation satellite launched by India on May 31, 1981. It was part of the Rohini Satellite Series, which was developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). The satellite was launched using the Satellite Launch Vehicle 3 (SLV-3) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre SLV Launch Pad.

### Technical Specifications
- **Mass**: 38 kilograms
- **Apoapsis**: 418 kilometres
- **Periapsis**: 186 kilometres
- **Orbital inclination**: 46 degrees
- **Orbit**: Low Earth orbit
- **COSPAR ID**: 1981-051A

### Mission Details
- **Launch date**: May 31, 1981
- **Launch vehicle**: Satellite Launch Vehicle 3 (SLV-3)
- **Launch site**: Satish Dhawan Space Centre SLV Launch Pad
- **Operator/Owner/Manufacturer**: Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)
- **Decay date**: June 9, 1981

### Significance
RS-D1 was a crucial step in India's space program, demonstrating the country's ability to design and operate Earth observation satellites. The satellite's successful deployment and operation contributed to ISRO's growing reputation for innovation and reliability in space exploration. Despite its short operational lifespan, RS-D1 provided valuable data and experience for future satellite missions.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report
2. [Source](https://www.isro.gov.in/Spacecraft/rs-1-1)
3. [Source](https://www.isro.gov.in/Spacecraft/rohini-satellite-rs-d1)