The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has launched a vast constellation of Earth observation satellites. Which of the following satellite series is specifically optimized with high-resolution panchromatic cameras to serve as India's primary tool for large-scale cadastral mapping and urban infrastructure planning?
- AThe INSAT (Indian National Satellite) series.
- BThe Megha-Tropiques mission.
- CThe Cartosat series.Correct
- DThe SARAL (Satellite with ARgos and ALtiKa) mission.
Solution
Concept
ISRO Cartosat series for cadastral and urban cartography
Formula
NONE
Step-by-step solution
1. Cadastral and municipal surveying requires sub-meter spatial resolution to identify property lines, roads, and structures. 2. ISRO specifically developed the Cartosat constellation for cartographic mapping, DEM generation, and cadastral surveys. 3. Cartosat carries high-resolution panchromatic imaging sensors tailored for large-scale planning. Answer: C
Explanation
India's Cartosat series of satellites (Cartosat-1, 2, and 3), developed by ISRO, is specifically dedicated to high-resolution cartographic and earth observation applications. Equipped with advanced panchromatic cameras delivering sub-meter spatial resolutions, Cartosat provides the detailed imagery necessary for cadastral property boundary mapping and urban infrastructure planning. Therefore, option C is correct.
Why the other options are wrong
A) INSAT is a geostationary meteorological and telecommunications satellite series. B) Megha-Tropiques is an Indo-French climate mission for the tropical water cycle. D) SARAL is an altimetric mission designed for oceanographic circulation and sea surface height monitoring.
Shortcut
Cartosat = Cartography + Cadastral + Urban Planning (High-res Panchromatic).
Common mistake
Selecting INSAT (meteorology/telecom) or SARAL (oceanographic altimetry) instead of Cartosat.
Correct answer: C) The Cartosat series.