Remote sensing, communication, navigation (NavIC); RISAT
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UPSC Prelims tests satellite types and their specific applications rather than theoretical principles. Questions focus on distinguishing between remote sensing (Earth observation), communication, and navigation satellites; NavIC appears frequently as India's indigenous GNSS alternative to GPS. RISAT is commonly asked for its synthetic aperture radar (SAR) capabilities and all-weather surveillance applications. Candidates often confuse satellite classifications or mix up NavIC parameters with GPS specifications.
NavIC: 8 satellites, Indian GNSS, GPS alternative
RISAT: SAR payload, all-weather reconnaissance, ice/cloud penetration
Remote sensing: Earth observation, multispectral/hyperspectral data
Communication satellites: Geostationary, C/Ku/Ka band, INSAT series
Navigation accuracy: NavIC ±5m civilian, GPS ±5-10m comparison