The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to launch its latest meteorological satellite, INSAT-3DS, aboard spacecraft GSLV F14 on Saturday evening, to get more accurate weather forecasts and natural disaster warnings. The rocket that will be used for the launch of the mission has been dubbed the ‘naughty boy’ of the space agency. 

The ISRO said that the GSLV-F14 will launch at 5:35 pm on Saturday from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. This will be the rocket's 16th mission overall and reportedly the 10th flight using the indigenous cryogenic engine. 

INSAT-3DS Launch Today: All You Need To Know

INSAT-3DS marks a significant advance in meteorological capabilities. The mission is set to provide a boost to the space agency by providing accurate weather information by studying the surface of the ocean. It will also be helpful in the prevention of natural disasters. 

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According to the ISRO, the objective of the GSLV-F14/INSAT-3DS mission is to provide continuity of services to existing operational INSAT-3, which was launched in 2013 and INSAT-3DR, launched in September 2016, for enhanced meteorological observations. The mission will also help in the monitoring of land and ocean surfaces for weather forecasting and disaster warning. 

Why Is GSLV F14 Called ‘Naughty Boy’?

The GSLV F14 spacecraft has been dubbed ‘naughty boy’ by the former ISRO chairman. The rocket was given the name for its spotty record as it has failed to perform effectively in six of its 15 flights, it reportedly has a 40 per cent failure rate. 

Notably, the last GSLV launch, on May 29, 2023, was successful, however, the previous one, on August 12, 2021, was not successful. 

INSAT-3DS Launch: When And Where To Watch 

For those who want to witness the historic launch of the mission, ISRO will provide live coverage of the event on various social media platforms including X, formerly Twitter, and YouTube. Also, DD National's YouTube channel will also broadcast the launch. You can also check the live updates of the INSAT-3DS Launch on the official website of Jagran English.