ISRO Rohini Satellite RS-D1 Mission Overview – Timeline, Progress & Scientific Aims

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 Rohini Satellite RS-D1 Mission —its objectives, timelines, key technologies, and strategic implications.

ISRO Rohini Satellite RS-D1 Mission Overview

Rohini Satellite RS-D1 was designed and executed with the primary aim of supporting advancements in Earth Observation (Experimental).The trajectory and configuration of Rohini Satellite RS-D1 were optimized for operations in Earth Orbit (intended).

• ISRO selected the SLV-3 (SLV-3-D1) to carry the Rohini Satellite RS-D1 mission.
• SHAR Centre, Sriharikota was the designated launch complex for this mission.
• Among its key functions, Rohini Satellite RS-D1 was intended to Earth observation with solid-state camera (Landmark Tracker).
• As a secondary focus, Rohini Satellite RS-D1 was intended to Further test SLV-3 capabilities.
• Partially successful / Launch partially successful describes the current phase of the mission.

Rohini Satellite RS-D1 Space Mission Overview for UPSC
Mission Name	Rohini Satellite RS-D1
Mission Abbreviation	RS-D1
Mission Type	Earth Observation (Experimental)
Target Celestial Body or Orbit	Earth Orbit (intended)
Primary Objective	Earth observation with solid-state camera (Landmark Tracker)
Secondary Objectives	Further test SLV-3 capabilities
Mission Status	Partially successful / Launch partially successful

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Timeline & Milestones of ISRO Rohini Satellite RS-D1 Mission

• ISRO conducted the launch of Rohini Satellite RS-D1 on 31/05/1981, as per mission planning.
• The mission is expected to complete its intended operations by 08 June 1981 (Mission life 9 days due to low orbit).

Timeline & Milestones
Proposal Date	N/A
Critical Design Review (CDR) Date	N/A
Assembly Complete Date	N/A
Launch Date	31/05/1981
Landing / Flyby Date	N/A
End of Primary Mission Date	08 June 1981 (Mission life 9 days due to low orbit)

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ISRO Rohini Satellite RS-D1 Mission Technical Specifications

The RS-D1 mission relied on Mass 38 kg; Power 16W; Spin stabilized to meet its mass, power, and structural needs.The mission trajectory for RS-D1 was designed around LEO (186 x 418 km (achieved); Did not reach intended height, aligned with its objectives.

• To fulfill its scientific mandate, RS-D1 carried instruments such as Solid-state camera (Landmark Tracker).
• To support telemetry, tracking, and command operations, RS-D1 used VHF band.
• The mission adopted Indigenous solid-state imaging sensor to meet its operational and scientific requirements.

Technical Specifications
Spacecraft Technical Specifications	Mass 38 kg; Power 16W; Spin stabilized
Scientific Payloads	Solid-state camera (Landmark Tracker)
Orbit Details	LEO (186 x 418 km (achieved); Did not reach intended height
Communication Frequencies / Band	VHF band
Key Technologies Used	Indigenous solid-state imaging sensor

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Rohini Satellite RS-D1 Launch Information

• 31/05/1981 marked the official launch of the Rohini Satellite RS-D1 mission.
• The SLV-3 (SLV-3-D1) was used to deploy Rohini Satellite RS-D1 into space.
• All pre-launch procedures were conducted at SHAR Centre, Sriharikota.

Launch Information
Launch Vehicle	SLV-3 (SLV-3-D1)
Launch Site	SHAR Centre, Sriharikota

Who are the Stakeholders & Collaborators?

The agencies supporting the mission include ISRO.

Stakeholders & Collaboration
Agencies Involved	ISRO
Commercial Partners	N/A
International Partners	N/A
Payload Contributions by Partners	N/A
Data Sharing Policy	N/A

Outputs, Applications & Impact of ISRO Rohini Satellite RS-D1 Mission

Among ISRO’s recent efforts, RS-D1 earned distinction for Payload functioned; provided some data despite orbital issues.The mission provided valuable datasets such as Limited imagery due to short mission life for scientific and operational use.

• In addition to its technical objectives, the mission also looked at Decayed from orbit quickly.
• Earth observation (imaging, landmark sensor, failed) reflects the broader civilian value of Rohini Satellite RS-D1.
• SLV-3 validation, remote sensing tech (intended) highlights the role of Rohini Satellite RS-D1 in India’s strategic space program.
• As part of a long-term roadmap, ISRO envisions further efforts related to Rohini Satellite RS-D1, which may include targeted missions like RS-D2.

Outputs, Applications & Impact of Rohini Satellite RS-D1 Mission
Data Outputs and Applications	Limited imagery due to short mission life
Major Achievements	Payload functioned; provided some data despite orbital issues
Applications in Civilian Life	Earth observation (imaging, landmark sensor, failed)
Impact on Policy & Global Collaboration	N/A
Environmental Impact & Sustainability	Decayed from orbit quickly
Strategic Significance & Policy Alignment	SLV-3 validation, remote sensing tech (intended)
Follow-up Missions or Extensions	RS-D2
Cost Estimate	N/A

ISRO Rohini Satellite RS-D1 Space Mission Risks, Failures & Mitigation

The execution of RS-D1 required solutions for handling Launch vehicle did not achieve intended orbit.

• Post-launch updates revealed that Rohini Satellite RS-D1 faced Did not reach intended height; short mission life (9 days).
• ISRO responded to the issue by adopting measures such as Analysis contributed to improvements for next SLV-3 flight.
• The events of the mission emphasized Importance of launch vehicle precision for satellite mission life.

Risks, Failures & Mitigation
Challenges Faced	Launch vehicle did not achieve intended orbit
Risk Mitigation Measures	N/A
Failures or Anomalies	Did not reach intended height; short mission life (9 days)
Corrective Actions Taken	Analysis contributed to improvements for next SLV-3 flight
Lessons Learned	Importance of launch vehicle precision for satellite mission life

UPSC Relevance of ISRO Rohini Satellite RS-D1 Space Mission

• The UPSC Prelims aspirants benefit from tracking ISRO developments, as topics like launch vehicles, mission objectives, and payload types are common in factual and concept-based questions.
• ISRO missions are highly relevant to UPSC Mains, particularly in GS Paper III, where candidates must understand the role of space technology in development, disaster management, communication, and governance.
• UPSC Essays focused on resilience, long-term vision, or Indias journey in science and technology can be powerfully anchored in examples like Chandrayaan-2’s setback and the recovery through Chandrayaan-3.
• ISRO’s satellite missions are highly relevant to Geography optional, especially under topics like remote sensing, resource mapping, and environmental monitoring.

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. Consider the following statements:

A. National Technology Day is commemorated on May 11 every year as India successfully conducted nuclear tests in Pokhran.

B. Agni-III is Indias latest long range surface-to-surface nuclear capable ballistic missile system that was successfully tested in 2018.

C. Mangalyaan was launched on 5th November, 2013 with the aim studying of the Moons topography, morphology, mineralogy and atmosphere.

D. U.R. Rao was the Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation when the first-ever Indian satellite Aryabhata was launched.

Identify the wrong statements:
1. B and C
2. A, B and D
3. A and D
4. A, C and D

This question was officially deleted by TSPSC in its final key.

Answer: B and C

Solution: Statement B is incorrect because Agni-III is not Indias latest long-range missile; India has developed more advanced versions like Agni-IV and Agni-V following Agni-III. Statement C is incorrect because Mangalyaan, or the Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM), was aimed at studying Mars, not the Moon. The mission to study the Moon is Chandrayaan. Statement A is correct as National Technology Day is celebrated on May 11 every year to commemorate Indias successful nuclear tests at Pokhran in 1998. Statement D is correct because U.R. Rao was indeed the Chairman of ISRO when the first-ever Indian satellite, Aryabhata, was launched in 1975.

Q2. Who among the following succeeded K Sivan as the ISRO chairman, in January 2022?
1. Shailesh Nayak
2. A S Kiran Kumar
3. VK Saraswat
4. S Somanath

Answer: S Somanath

Solution: The Appointments Committee has approved the appointment of rocket scientist S Somanath, Director Vikram Sarabhai Space Center (VSSC) to the post of ISRO Chief and Chairman ISRO. S. Somanath will succeed K Sivan who completes his extended tenure on 14 Jan 2022. He has been appointed for a combined tenure of 3 years from the date of joining.

Q3. Which of the following countries has become the first country to successfully land a spacecraft on the moons south pole?
1. India
2. Russia
3. China
4. US

Answer: India

Solution: India has become the first country to successfully land a spacecraft on the moons south pole. After a 40-day journey starting from the Sathish Dhawan Space Center in Sriharikota, the Indian Space Research Organisations (ISRO) Chandrayaan-3 mission has landed successfully. The Vikram lander made a soft lunar landing. The Chandrayaan-3 mission is the follow-up to the Chandrayaan-2 mission of 2019, when the Vikram lander crashed into the lunar surface. The primary objective of the mission is simple—showcase the space agencys capability to complete a soft-landing on the Moon. With the mission, India has joined a small and exclusive club of countries that have managed to soft land on the Moon.

Q4. Consider the following statements about the INSAT-3DS satellite:

1. It is a communication satellite designed to bolster 6G services in the north-eastern states of India.

2. The satellite will be launched aboard a Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle F14, from Shriharikota.

Which of the above statements is/are incorrect?
1. Only 1
2. Only 2
3. Both 1 and 2
4. None of the above

The incorrect statement is Only 1.

Answer: Only 1

Solution: ISRO to launch weather satellite INSAT-3DS. ISRO's meteorological satellite INSAT-3DS, aimed at improving meteorological observations for enhanced weather forecasting and disaster warning, is scheduled for launch on February 17. Hence, statement no. 1 is INCORRECT. The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) announced that the satellite will be launched aboard a Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle F14 (GSLV F14). Hence, statement no. 2 is CORRECT. The GSLV-F14/INSAT-3DS mission is set to launch on February 17, at 5:30 pm from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR in Sriharikota.

Q5. Consider the following statements about Agnibaan SubOrbital Technological Demonstrator SOrTeD:

1. Agnibaan SOrTeD is fully developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation ISRO alone, without any support from other organizations.

2. The rocket is powered by the Agnilet engine, which is notable for being the worlds first 100% 3D-printed, semi-cryogenic rocket engine.

3. It has the capability of reaching an altitude of 700 km with payloads up to 100 kg and can be launched in configurations up to five different settings.

How many of the given statements are correct?
1. Only one
2. Only two
3. All three
4. None

The correct answer is option 2.

Answer: Only two

Solution: Chennai-based space startup Agnikul Cosmos Private Limited is set to launch its first rocket, the Agnibaan Suborbital Technology Demonstrator SOrTeD. AgniKul Cosmos journey is supported by the Indian Space Research Organisation ISRO and Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre IN-SPACe. Hence statement 1 is incorrect. The Agnilet engine, a groundbreaking advancement in rocketry, is distinguished by its method of production - being 100% 3D-printed. This highlights the innovation in its manufacturing process, making it a significant development in the field of rocket engines. Hence statement 2 is correct. Agnibaan SOrTeD is capable of carrying payloads up to 100 kg to an altitude of 700 km, and its versatility is showcased through its ability to be launched in five different configurations. This adaptability makes it a notable entrant in the realm of space launch vehicles, especially for small payloads. Hence statement 3 is correct.

Q6. Consider the following statements regarding the features of NISAR Satellite:

1. The S-band payload has been made by the US and the L-band by the ISRO.

2. It can completely map earth in 14-15 days and is capable of monitoring the vegetation cover and snow cover.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?
1. 1 only
2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 nor 2

The correct answer is 2 Only.

Answer: 2 Only

Solution: NISAR represents an equal collaboration between NASA and ISRO, marking the first time these two agencies have cooperated in the development of hardware for an Earth-observing mission. The NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar NISAR mission is a joint project between NASA and ISRO to co-develop and launch a dual-frequency synthetic aperture radar satellite. Scheduled for launch in early 2024, it is poised to facilitate the exploration of how shifts in Earths forest and wetland ecosystems impact the global carbon cycle and influence climate change. NISARs advanced radar systems will comprehensively scan nearly all of Earths land and ice surfaces every 14-15 days. Hence, statement 2 is correct. The S-band payload has been made by the ISRO and the L-band by the U.S. Hence, statement 1 is incorrect.

Q7. Which of the following missions will lead to Indias first human presence on the International Space Station ISS?
1. Axiom-4
2. Taxsci-4
3. VenSpac-4
4. Spacoon-4

The correct answer is Axiom-4.

Answer: Axiom-4

Solution: Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla will pilot the Axiom-4 Ax-4 mission to the International Space Station ISS in 2025, marking Indias first human presence aboard the ISS and its second government-sponsored human spaceflight since Rakesh Sharmas 1984 mission. This mission is a collaboration between India and the United States, following an agreement between ISRO and Axiom Space, announced during Prime Minister Modis state visit to the U.S. Shukla, an experienced test pilot from the Indian Air Force IAF, will be joined by fellow IAF astronaut and backup pilot Group Captain Prashanth Nair, with the mission commanded by renowned astronaut Peggy Whitson. As pilot, Shukla will assist with spacecraft operations, navigation, and docking, while also preparing for emergencies and conducting critical system checks. He will support scientific research by managing microgravity experiments aboard the ISS. The Ax-4 mission is pivotal for advancing Indias space capabilities, particularly in preparation for the Gaganyaan project, Indias upcoming crewed mission. Shukla is expected to conduct five experiments during his time on the ISS.

Q8. What is the name acronym of the software developed by ISRO, through its Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre VSSC, a Computational Fluid Dynamics CFD tool aimed at facilitating aerodynamic design and analysis for aerospace vehicles?
1. PraVaHa
2. PraNaMa
3. PraYoGa
4. PraViNa

The correct answer is PraVaHa.

Answer: PraVaHa

Solution: PraVaHa is the acronym for the Computational Fluid Dynamics CFD software developed by ISRO. The software was developed at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre VSSC. PraVaHa is aimed at facilitating aerodynamic design and analysis for aerospace vehicles. This tool enhances the capabilities of ISRO in the field of aerodynamics and fluid dynamics. It supports the development and optimization of various aerospace vehicles including rockets and satellites.

Q9. Which of the following functions is not among those suggested for devolution to panchayats for enhanced local governance?
1. Rural electrification
2. Vocational education
3. Space research
4. Small-scale industries

The correct answer is Space research.

Answer: Space research

Solution: Space research is generally managed at the national level, typically by government agencies such as the Indian Space Research Organisation ISRO. Panchayats are primarily local self-government bodies focused on the development and administration of rural areas. Functions suggested for devolution to panchayats include activities directly impacting local communities such as rural electrification, vocational education, and the development of small-scale industries. Space research requires significant technological infrastructure, specialized knowledge, and resources that are beyond the scope of local governance structures like panchayats.

Q10. Presence of which element is confirmed by Chandrayaan-3s Pragyan Rover on the Moon surface in August 2023?
1. Phosphorus
2. Zinc
3. Sulphur
4. Oxygen

The correct answer is Sulphur.

Answer: Sulphur

Solution: Chandrayaan-3s Pragyan Rover confirmed the presence of sulphur on the Moons south pole surface in August 2023. This discovery was made using the Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy LIBS instrument onboard the Pragyan Rover. The rovers analysis also detected other elements, including aluminium, calcium, iron, chromium, titanium, manganese, silicon, and oxygen. The finding of sulphur is significant as it provides insights into the Moons geological composition and helps understand its volcanic history. This is the first in-situ measurement of sulphur on the Moon, setting a milestone for Indias space research.

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