Technology assignment EDUSAT- Educational Satellite

First educational satellite of India

1. ASSIGNMENT ON EDUSAT
Introduction
oEDUSAT or EDucational SATellite , also known as GSAT – 3,
was India’s first dedicated educational satellite, launched
by ISRO on 20
th
september 2004.
oIt was specifically designed to meet the demands of the
distance education system in India.
oEDUSAT aimed to use satellite technology to enhance
access to quality education, especially in rural and
remote areas.
oThe satellite operated in geostationary orbit and carried
KU – band and C- band transponders to support audio –
vedio and interactive learning.
Objectives of EDUSAT

2. oBridge the digital and educational divide between urban
and rural areas.
oSupport primary, secondary, and higher education.
oProvide training for teachers and facilitate non- formal
education.
oOffer tele- education services via audio- visual and
interactive formats.
oProvide satellite – based distance education to schools,
colleges, and universities.
oFacilitate interactive learning through two-way
communication systems.
oAssist in non- formal education such as vocational
training and adult literacy programs.
Achievements of EDUSAT
oFirst satellite dedicated solely to education in India.

3. oSuccessfully demonstrated how satellite
communication could reduce the urban – rural
education divide.
oInspired development of future tele- education
programs under mission like SWAYAM, NPTEL and e-
Vidya.
oDelivered curriculum – based content for school and
College students.
oEnable live lectures, virtual classrooms, and
interactive sessions.
oEmpowered instructions like IGNOU, NCERT, and
various state education departments to reach wider
audiences.
oConnected over 50,000 terminals across India,
including remote villages and hilly terrains.
Limitations and challenges

4. oLimited lifespan (operational till around 2010 – 2011).
oTechnical barriers in remote areas, lack of electricity or
skilled operators.
oDependence on continuous satellite health and ground
station maintenance.
oRequired upgrades as technology evolved towards
internet–based e- learning platforms.
Conclusion
EDUSAT was a landmark project that revolutionized distance
education in India. It demonstrated how space technology can
be effectively used for social development, particularly in the
field of education. Though the satellite has been
decommissioned, it’s legacy continues in India’s ongoing
efforts to integrate technology with education, ensuring
access, equity and quality learning for all.