UPSC Previous Year Question | Prelims GS | 2016

With reference to 'Astrosat', the astronomical observatory launched by India, which of the following statements is/are correct? 1. Other than USA and Russia, India is the only country to have launched a similar observatory into space. 2. Astrosat is a 2000 kg satellite placed in an orbit at 1650 km above the surface of the Earth. Select the correct answer using the code given below.

  1. 1 only
  2. 2 only
  3. Both 1 and 2
  4. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer

Correct Answer

Neither 1 nor 2

Explanation

Several other countries and agencies (e.g., ESA, Japan) have also launched multi-wavelength space observatories, making statement 1 incorrect. Astrosat weighs about 1,500 kg and orbits at roughly 650 km, not 2000 kg at 1650 km, making statement 2 incorrect.

Topics: astrosat, isro missions, science and technology, space