IPL Kilingale - Science and Technology

 

Welcome to the fifth lesson of the IPL Kilingale crash course for UPSC civil services 2020. In this lesson, we will be discussing the important topics of Science and Technology. Science and Technology play a crucial role in the UPSC civil services examination, and having a good understanding of these subjects can greatly enhance your chances of success. So, let's dive into the fascinating world of Science and Technology!

About the Instructor

Before we begin, let me introduce myself. I am Dr. Ravi Grady, and I have been teaching Science and Technology for civil services for over 19 years. I hold a Ph.D. from Delhi institution and have been the director of the institution for many years. I have guided thousands of students to success in the civil services examination, and I have authored several highly popular books on Science and Technology and Environment. You can find more information about me and my courses on my Telegram channel or on the Anacademy website.

The Concept of Orbit

Let's start by understanding the concept of orbit and how satellites are related to it. An orbit is the path followed by a satellite around a celestial body. Satellites are launched into space using launch vehicles and are powered by jet engine technology. One of the most important applications of orbit and satellites is the GPS system, which provides navigation and positioning services both at a regional and global level. India also has its own space missions, including the famous Mangalyan mission to Mars. These topics are expected to be important in the upcoming UPSC civil services examination, so let's explore them in more detail.

Types of Orbit

Orbits can be classified based on their parameters and position. The most common types of orbits are:

• Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO): This orbit is located at a fixed position above the Earth's equator and is used for communication and weather satellites.
• Low Earth Orbit (LEO): This orbit is located at a relatively close distance to the Earth's surface and is used for remote sensing and observation satellites.
• Molniya Orbit: This orbit is highly inclined and is used for satellites that require continuous coverage of high latitudes.
• Polar Orbit: This orbit passes over or near the Earth's poles and is used for satellites that require global coverage.
• Sun-Synchronous Orbit: This orbit is designed to maintain a constant angle between the satellite and the Sun, allowing for consistent lighting conditions for imaging satellites.

Applications of Satellites

Satellites have a wide range of applications and are used in various fields. Some of the key applications include:

• Earth Observation: Satellites are used to observe and monitor the Earth's surface, oceans, and atmosphere. They are used for assessing crop productivity, locating groundwater resources, and monitoring weather conditions.
• Telecommunication: Satellites play a crucial role in providing telecommunication services, including television and radio broadcasting, as well as internet connectivity.
• Navigation: Satellites are used in the GPS system to provide accurate positioning and navigation services.
• Disaster Management: Satellites are used in search and rescue operations and to monitor natural disasters such as floods and earthquakes.
• Scientific Research: Satellites are used in scientific research to study various phenomena such as plate tectonics and atmospheric changes.

Multipurpose Satellites

Multipurpose satellites are designed to serve multiple applications. They are equipped with advanced technology and provide a wide range of services. Some examples of multipurpose satellites include:

• NISAR (NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar): This satellite is a joint project between NASA and ISRO and is used for earth observation and mapping.
• GSAT series: These satellites are developed by ISRO and are used for various applications such as telecommunication, weather forecasting, and remote sensing.
• Eyesat: This satellite is developed by SRM University and is used for experimental purposes and research.

In conclusion, orbit and satellites are fascinating topics with numerous applications in our daily lives. Understanding these concepts is essential for success in the UPSC civil services examination. If you have any doubts or queries, feel free to reach out to me on my YouTube channel or Anacademy. Remember to stay updated with the latest developments in Science and Technology and keep practicing with test series to improve your knowledge and performance. Good luck with your preparation!

Disclaimer: All this information is available on the public domain.