Engineering Challenges in the Megha-Tropiques Satellite

Megha-Tropiques is an Indo-French satellite mission for climate research and applications in tropical regions. It is built using ISRO's IRS platform and four high technology payloads: MADRAS, SAPHIR, SCARAB and ROSA. MADRAS is a joint development; CNES provided SAPHIR and SCARAB; ROSA is procured by ISRO. Realization of the satellite was a challenging task for inclined orbit operations, with complex features such as: three mechanically scanning payloads; two payload deployments; large rotating mass (MADRAS); mission-critical power and signaltransfer device. Megha-Tropiques was launched on 12 October 2011 by ISRO's PSLV into a 20° inclined orbit for high observation frequency. It is controlled by ISRO's ISTRAC ground station. Science data is received at ISTRAC and CNES-stations at Kourou and Hartebeeshoek.