India’s space programme, led by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), has evolved from modest beginnings into one of the most respected space agencies in the world. Over the years, ISRO has designed and executed a range of missions—from satellite navigation, Earth observation, interplanetary exploration, to solar studies—that have not only enhanced India’s technological self-reliance but also contributed to global scientific collaboration. Its cost-effective approaches and mission diversity—from Chandrayaan and Mangalyaan to Aditya-L1 and the upcoming Gaganyaan—have become case studies in innovation.

For UPSC aspirants, ISROs journey is more than current affairs—it directly intersects with the syllabus of General Studies Paper 3 (Science & Technology), provides examples for GS Paper 2 (International Relations, Governance), and can enrich perspectives in the Essay Paper, Ethics, and even Optional subjects like Geography or PSIR. In this article, we will explore detailed insights about ISRO Hyperspectral Imaging Satellite Mission —its objectives, timelines, key technologies, and strategic implications.

ISRO Hyperspectral Imaging Satellite Mission Overview

As a Earth Observation initiative, ISROs Hyperspectral Imaging Satellite contributes to ISRO’s broader programmatic roadmap.Hyperspectral Imaging Satellite was configured for deployment in Earth, based on mission requirements.

• Hyperspectral Imaging Satellite was launched aboard the PSLV-C43.
• The selected launch site for the operation was Satish Dhawan Space Centre.
• Among its key functions, Hyperspectral Imaging Satellite was intended to Hyperspectral imaging for Earth monitoring.
• The mission also targeted supporting objectives like Applications in various fields.
• The mission is currently in the stage of Operational.

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Timeline & Milestones of ISRO Hyperspectral Imaging Satellite Mission

• On November 29, 2018, Hyperspectral Imaging Satellite was sent into its designated orbit.

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ISRO Hyperspectral Imaging Satellite Mission Technical Specifications

Miniature satellite bus (IMS-2) defined the operational capabilities of HysIS, supporting its deployment into Earth.The orbital path—Sun-Synchronous Polar Orbit (SSPO)—was selected based on compatibility with the mission’s launch platform and onboard systems.

• Hyperspectral imager were integrated into Hyperspectral Imaging Satellite to operate effectively in Earth.
• The design and execution of Hyperspectral Imaging Satellite incorporated features like Hyperspectral imaging technology.

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Hyperspectral Imaging Satellite Launch Information

• The mission timeline of Hyperspectral Imaging Satellite began with its launch on November 29, 2018.
• To execute the launch of Hyperspectral Imaging Satellite, the PSLV-C43 was deployed.
• Liftoff occurred at Satish Dhawan Space Centre, as per mission scheduling.

Who are the Stakeholders & Collaborators?

According to official information, ISRO were associated with the mission.

Outputs, Applications & Impact of ISRO Hyperspectral Imaging Satellite Mission

Hyperspectral Imaging Satellite is recognized for achieving First Indian hyperspectral imaging satellite.Scientific analysis and public services were enabled through outputs like Earth observation data.

• ISRO has noted that Hyperspectral Imaging Satellite contributes to public services including Agriculture, forestry, geology, coastal zone studies, environmental monitoring.
• Indigenous hyperspectral imaging capability for resource management highlights the role of Hyperspectral Imaging Satellite in India’s strategic space program.
• Post-mission phases for Hyperspectral Imaging Satellite may involve scaling up efforts through advanced programs such as Potential future hyperspectral satellites with improved capabilities, ensuring sustained benefits and impact.

ISRO Hyperspectral Imaging Satellite Space Mission Risks, Failures & Mitigation

UPSC Relevance of ISRO Hyperspectral Imaging Satellite Space Mission

• Regular updates from sources like PIB, ISRO press releases, and current affairs magazines help aspirants stay updated on mission statuses for accurate UPSC Prelims preparation.
• Indias strategic edge through missions like EMISAT or satellite-based surveillance aligns with General Studies topics on defence and internal security.
• Case studies on transparent communication during mission failures or ISROs non-militaristic space stance fit well into discussions on ethical decision-making.
• Optional subjects like Political Science can reference ISRO to highlight the role of strategic autonomy and scientific sovereignty in shaping foreign policy.

Past UPSC Mains PYQs on ISRO Space Missions

Q1. Discuss the role of the private sector in the growth of the space industry in India. How has the governments policy of 2023 affected it? (2023, GS Paper 3 - Science & Technology)

Q2. What is India’s plan to have its own space station and how will it benefit our space programme? (2022 & 2019, GS Paper 3 - Science & Technology)

Q3. Space has been the next big frontier for mankind after sea and land. In this context, discuss Indias policy and preparedness for space wars. (2019, GS Paper 3 - Science & Technology)

Q4. Discuss the utility of the Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM) for India. (2016, GS Paper 3 - Science & Technology)

Q5. What do you understand by Standard Positioning Systems and Precision Positioning Systems in the GPS era? Discuss the advantages India perceives from its ambitious IRNSS programme employing just seven satellites. (2015, GS Paper 3 - Science & Technology)

Past UPSC Prelims PYQs on ISRO Space Missions

Q1 [2025]: GPS-Aided Geo Augmented Navigation (GAGAN) uses a system of ground stations to provide necessary augmentation. Which of the following statements is/are correct in respect of GAGAN?

I. It is designed to provide additional accuracy and integrity.
II. It will allow more uniform and high quality air traffic management.
III. It will provide benefits only in aviation but not in other modes of transportation.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

(a) I, II and III
(b) II and III only
(c) I only
(d) I and II only

Correct Answer: (d) I and II only

Explanation: Statements I and II correctly describe the core purpose and benefit of the GAGAN system. (I) GAGAN is designed to augment GPS signals by correcting for errors, which provides much greater accuracy and guarantees the integrity (reliability) of the positioning information. (II) This enhanced accuracy and reliability directly enables more precise aircraft routing and landing procedures, thus improving the uniformity and quality of air traffic management.

Q2 [2022]: If a major solar storm (solar flare) reaches the Earth, which of the following are the possible effects on the Earth?

1. GPS and navigation systems could fail.
2. Tsunamis could occur at equatorial regions.
3. Power grids could be damaged.
4. Intense auroras could occur over much of the Earth.
5. Forest fires could take place over much of the planet.
6. Orbits of the satellites could be disturbed.
7. Shortwave radio communication of the aircraft flying over polar regions could be interrupted.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1, 2, 4 and 5 only
(b) 2, 3, 5, 6 and 7 only
(c) 1, 3, 4, 6 and 7 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7

Answer: The correct answer is (c).

Explanation: A major solar storm can disrupt GPS, power grids, satellite orbits, polar radio communication, and cause auroras, but cannot trigger tsunamis or forest fires.

Q3 [2020]: The experiment will employ a trio of spacecraft flying in formation in the shape of an equilateral triangle that has sides one million kilometres long, with lasers shining between the craft.” The experiment in question refers to

(a) Voyager-2
(b) New horizons
(c) Lisa Pathfinder
(d) Evolved LISA

Answer: The correct answer is (d) Evolved LISA.

Explanation: Evolved LISA (Laser Interferometer Space Antenna) is a planned space-based gravitational wave observatory by ESA and NASA, using three spacecraft in a triangular formation with laser beams to detect cosmic gravitational waves.

Q4 [2016]: Consider the following statements:

The Mangalyaan launched by ISRO

1. is also called the Mars Orbiter Mission
2. made India the second country to have a spacecraft orbit the Mars after USA
3. made India the only country to be successful in making its spacecraft orbit the Mars in its very first attempt

Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: c) 1 and 3 only

Explanation: Mangalyaan is the informal name of Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM), launched by ISRO on 5 November 2013 and India is the only nation to date to have succeeded on its maiden attempt.

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UPSC Practice Questions on ISRO Space Missions

Q1. The PSLV C34 rocket was launched from the Satish Dhawan Space Center in Sriharikota to put 22 satellites into orbit. This has happened for the first time in the history of _______.
1. NASA
2. Roskasmas
3. ISRO
4. CSA
Answer: ISRO
Solution: The PSLV C34 rocket was launched by ISRO, marking a significant achievement in the history of India's space exploration efforts.

Q2. In which district, the road leading to Karrahi from Barra Bypass has been named after ISRO Chairman S Somnath?
1. Lucknow
2. Kanpur
3. Varanasi
4. Agra
Answer: Kanpur
Solution: The road from Baira to Karrahi in Kanpur has been named after ISRO President S Somnath, highlighting the recognition of his contributions to India's space program.

Q3. Young scientist Ayush Jha, who was part of the ISRO team from the creation of Chandrayaan-3 to its launch, is a resident of?
1. Jamshedpur (East Singhbhum)
2. Jharia (Dhanbad)
3. Mandar (Ranchi)
4. Chakradharpur (West Singhbhum)
Answer: Chakradharpur (West Singhbhum)
Solution: Ayush Jha is a young scientist who contributed to the programming of the soft landing of Chandrayaan-3 and is a resident of Chakradharpur in West Singhbhum.

Q4. In 2017, which Satellite Launch Vehicle of ISRO successfully launched 104 satellites in a single flight?
1. INSAT-3DR
2. PSLV-C55
3. GSLV-F12
4. PSLV-C37
Answer: PSLV-C37
Solution: PSLV-C37 successfully launched 104 satellites in a single flight on February 15, 2017, setting a world record for the most satellites launched in a single mission.

Q5. In which year did Rakesh Sharma go to space in a Russian rocket?
1. 1980
2. 1982
3. 1984
4. 1986
Answer: 1984
Solution: Rakesh Sharma became the first Indian citizen to travel to space aboard the Soyuz T-11 on April 2, 1984, as part of a joint program between ISRO and the Soviet Intercosmos space program.

Q6. With which country has ISRO collaborated for the Gaganyaan mission's crew and module recovery?
1. Russia
2. Australia
3. United States
4. Japan
Answer: Australia
Solution: ISRO has signed an agreement with the Australian Space Agency to enhance cooperation on India's Gaganyaan mission, focusing on crew and module recovery operations in Australian waters.

Q7. By which year is the Venus mission Shukrayaan slated for launch?
1. 2026
2. 2027
3. 2028
4. 2029
Answer: 2028
Solution: ISRO's Venus mission, Shukrayaan, has been approved for launch in 2028, aiming to study the planet's surface and atmosphere.

Q8. What is the name of the half humanoid robot that India is planning to launch in space before the actual human mission Gaganyaan to test flight criticalities?
1. Nabhmitra
2. Antariksha vicharak
3. Gaganmaitri
4. Vyommitra
Answer: Vyommitra
Solution: Vyommitra is a half-humanoid robot developed by ISRO to serve as a preliminary test robot for the Gaganyaan mission, designed to ensure systems and conditions are suitable for human astronauts.

Q9. What is the primary goal of the NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar NISAR mission?
1. Climate action
2. Defense satellites
3. Space tourism
4. Trade monitoring
Answer: Climate action
Solution: The primary goal of the NISAR mission is to monitor and measure changes in the Earth's surface to understand climate change impacts, providing crucial data for managing natural resources and hazards.

Q10. Which organisation recently sent the Indian tricolour flag to the edge of space on a balloon?
1. ISSC
2. ISRO
3. Space Kidz India
4. Skyroot Aerospace
Answer: Space Kidz India
Solution: Space Kidz India, a Chennai-based organization, recently sent the Indian tricolour flag to the edge of space using a high-altitude balloon, celebrating India's 75th Independence Day and inspiring scientific curiosity among youth.