Question

The satellite INSAT-1B was launched:
(A) From the SHAR in Nellore
(B) From a cosmodrome of USSR
(C) From French Guiana
(D) A board the U.S. space shuttle challenger

Answer 1

The Indian National Satellite or INSAT system, is considered as one of the largest domestic communications systems in the Asia Pacific region. It has nine operational satellites and it was developed in 1983. The launch of INSAT-1B, the second satellite in INSAT-1 series brought a revolution in the communication sector of India.

Complete Step by step answer: The INSAT-1B satellite was built by Ford Aerospace and was operated by Indian National Satellite System. The mass of the satellite as the time of launch was 1, 152 Kg. It was launched from Kennedy Space Centre on 30th August 1983. It was launched by Space Shuttle of the USA that is Space Shuttle Challenger. I
- INSAT-IB was the first operational satellite in INSAT series. The satellite provided services in the area of telecommunication, broadcasting, radio networking, weather observation and weather forecasting.
- The INSAT-1B satellite was proved to be one of the most dependable spacecraft during its tenure and was operational throughout 7 years. It was expected to be functional for at least 7 years. Initially, after the launch of INSAT-1B, there were some issues developed regarding its operations. In October 1983, it became functional after fixing the issues.

Hence, the correct option is option (D).

Note: After becoming successfully functional for about 7 years, in 1990, the INSAT-1B was replaced by the INSAT-1D when the former was relegated to backup status. It was then removed from the geostationary orbit and moved into the graveyard orbit in August 1993. The number of images transmitted to the earth by this satellite is around 36000.
INSAT-1D is the fourth satellite in INSAT-1 series and was launched on 12th June, 1990.