INSAT-3DR is an advanced Indian meteorological and data relay satellite developed and operated by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). It is part of the INSAT-3D series and serves as a follow-on mission to INSAT-3D, enhancing India’s capabilities in weather monitoring, disaster management, and environmental observation.

The satellite was launched on 8 September 2016 aboard a GSLV-F05 rocket from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC), Sriharikota, India. Following a successful launch, INSAT-3DR was placed into geostationary orbit (GEO), providing continuous coverage over the Indian subcontinent and surrounding regions.

INSAT-3DR carries a suite of advanced meteorological payloads, including:

• A multi-spectral imager for day and night imaging of weather systems
• A sounder for vertical atmospheric temperature and humidity profiling
• A Data Relay Transponder (DRT) to collect data from remote automatic weather stations
• A Search and Rescue (SAR) payload supporting international COSPAS-SARSAT operations

Key capabilities include:

• Real-time weather imaging and cyclone tracking
• Monitoring of cloud formation, rainfall patterns, and severe weather events
• Early warning for natural disasters such as cyclones and storms
• Collection and relay of meteorological and oceanographic data

INSAT-3DR significantly improves the accuracy of weather forecasting and climate monitoring in India, supporting agencies such as the India Meteorological Department (IMD). It plays a critical role in safeguarding lives and infrastructure by enabling timely disaster warnings and response coordination.

As part of ISRO’s INSAT/GSAT fleet, INSAT-3DR strengthens India’s position in space-based Earth observation and meteorology, contributing to more resilient and data-driven weather services.