Space Applications Centre

SAC : An Overview

Space Applications Centre (SAC) is one of the major centres of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). It is a unique centre dealing with a wide variety of themes ranging from payload developments to societal applications. SAC is responsible for realizing the applications-oriented programmes of ISRO in the areas of Satellite Communications, Navigation and Remote Sensing.

Highlights of SAC activities are:
	Design and development of space-borne instruments and payloads for communications and remote sensing satellites for ISRO missions :
		Communication Transponders for INSAT/ GSAT series of communication satellites.
		Optical & Microwave sensors systems for IRS-series of Earth-Observation and Meteorological satellites .

	Development of ground systems & terminals for:
		Communication and data reception earth stations (Transmit/receive systems).
		Software for data- products generation and data/image processing systems.

	Operationaliation of applications of space technology for national development. The applications cover communication, broadcasting, navigation, disaster monitoring, meteorology, oceanography, environment monitoring and natural resources surveys.

	Research and development on utilisation of space infrastructure for:
		SATCOM applications like broadcasting, telecommunications, navigation, telemedicine, mobile communications, etc.
		Remote Sensing/ Meteorological application like survey and information on natural resources, agricultural applications like crop, acreage and production estimation, coastal zone regulation, forestry, disaster monitoring and mitigation, studies in ocean and atmosphere science for weather forecasts, etc.

	Conducting nine-month Post-graduate (PG) diploma courses for students from the Asia Pacific region under the aegis of the Centre for Space Science and Technology Education in Asia & the Pacific (CSSTEAP) in satellite meteorology and communication. SAC works with industry for sourcing and indigenization involves Indian universities in space research and propagates space technology and applications amongst students and public through in-house and mobile exhibitions.

	In order to carry out the above tasks, SAC has highly sophisticated payload integration laboratories, electronic and mechanical fabrication facilities, environmental test facilities, systems reliability/assurance group, project planning and management support and a well-stocked library.