Context:
The National Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasting (NCMRWF) recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) to establish two Direct Broadcast Network (DBNet) stations in Delhi/NCR and Chennai. This initiative is part of India's Mission Mausam, aimed at strengthening weather forecasting and global climate monitoring.
Objectives of the MoU:
- Establishment of DBNet Stations: Set up two DBNet stations in Delhi/NCR and Chennai to receive direct broadcast data from various Indian and international Earth Observing System (EOS) satellites.
- Enhanced Data Acquisition: Improve the timelines and accuracy of satellite data reception, enabling better weather forecasting and climate monitoring.
About Mission Mausam:
Mission Mausam is a significant initiative launched by the Government of India to enhance the nation's capabilities in weather forecasting and climate resilience. Approved by the Union Cabinet in September 2024, the mission will be implemented between 2024 and 2026 with an investment of ₹2,000 crore
Key Objectives:
1. Advanced Weather Surveillance: Deploy next-generation radars and satellites equipped with advanced instruments to enhance atmospheric observations.
2. High-Performance Computing: Use supercomputers to process vast amounts of meteorological data, facilitating more accurate forecasts.
3. AI and ML Integration: Incorporate artificial intelligence and machine learning models to improve weather prediction accuracy and efficiency.
4. Infrastructure Expansion: Set up a comprehensive network of weather monitoring stations, including Doppler Weather Radars, Radio Sonde stations, and marine observatories
5. Enhanced Forecasting Capabilities: Improve the accuracy of short and medium-range weather forecasts, extending predictions to panchayat levels with a 10-15 day lead time
About DBNet:
The Direct Broadcast Network (DBNet) is a global operational framework designed for the real-time acquisition of satellite data from Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites.
· It plays a critical role in Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP) and supports a wide range of applications, including weather forecasting, cyclone monitoring, and climate research.
About NewSpace India Limited (NSIL):
Established on March 6, 2019, NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) is a Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) under the Department of Space, Government of India.
· Its primary mission is to enhance private sector participation in India's space programs by facilitating technology transfer, satellite production, and launch services.
Objectives:
· Technology Transfer: Licensing ISRO-developed technologies to the private sector for commercialization.
· Satellite Launch Vehicle Production: Manufacturing the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) in collaboration with private industry.
· Space-Based Services: Producing and marketing space-based products and services, including satellite launches and applications.
Conclusion:
The establishment of DBNet stations might significantly enhance India's capabilities in weather forecasting and climate monitoring. By improving the timeliness and accuracy of satellite data reception, DBNet will contribute to more reliable and efficient weather predictions, helping various sectors including agriculture, disaster management, and urban planning.
