The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) Satellite Integration and Testing Establishment (ISITE), located in Bangalore, India, is a crucial facility for the integration and testing of India’s space-bound satellites. This facility plays a pivotal role in ISRO’s mission to harness space technology for national development while pursuing space science research and planetary exploration.
ISITE is responsible for ensuring that satellites are meticulously assembled and rigorously tested before they are launched into space. Notable achievements of ISITE include the successful integration and testing of satellites for major missions such as Chandrayaan-1, India’s first lunar probe, and the Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan), which made India the first country to reach Mars orbit on its first attempt. By enabling the successful deployment of these and other satellites, ISITE significantly contributes to India’s growing prominence in the global space industry.
A little History
The ISRO Satellite Integration and Testing Establishment was established to support India’s expanding space program, which began in the 1960s with the goal of using space technology for practical applications such as communication, weather forecasting, and remote sensing.
As ISRO’s ambitions grew, the need for a dedicated facility to integrate and test satellites became apparent. ISITE was developed to meet this need, providing state-of-the-art facilities for satellite assembly, integration, and testing. Over the years, ISITE has supported numerous key missions, including the PSLV (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle) and GSLV (Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle) series, which have successfully launched multiple satellites into orbit.
Technological advancements at ISITE also include the development of sophisticated environmental test chambers, vibration and acoustic testing facilities, and thermal vacuum chambers, which ensure that satellites can withstand the harsh conditions of space.
Related Spacecraft
Here are some of the remarkable vehicles launched from this location:
How to Visit ISRO's ISITE
There are three (slightly difficult but possible) ways to visit the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC), ISRO’s launch facility at Sriharikota 🔗. Access to the visitor gallery is granted exclusively during rocket launches. For security reasons, the general public is not permitted inside the center.
You can obtain a launch pass to witness an upcoming rocket launch. This grants access to the launch view gallery, where you can watch the launch, explore some exhibits, and experience the excitement of a live space mission.
Another option is to secure a visitor’s pass through a friend or relative working at SDSC. With this pass, you may gain access to the launch pads and a few other approved areas within the facility. If you are a student or faculty member, your school or college can arrange a trip. With the necessary clearances, you’ll be able to explore the same facilities mentioned for visitors with a pass, including areas near the launch pads.
Infrastructure and Facilities
- Clean Rooms: Providing contamination-free environments for satellite assembly and integration.
- Vibration and Acoustic Test Chambers: Ensuring that satellites can endure the mechanical stresses of launch.
- Thermal Vacuum Chambers: Simulating the extreme conditions of space to test satellite systems.
- Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Test Facility: Verifying that satellite components do not interfere with each other.
- Environmental Test Facilities: Including thermal cycling, humidity, and radiation testing to ensure satellite durability.
