In which of the following activities are Indian Remote Sensing (IRS) satellites used?

1. Assessment of crop productivity
2. Locating groundwater resources
3. Mineral exploration
4. Telecommunications
5. Traffic studies

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

1. 1, 2 and 3 only
2. 4 and 5 only
3. 1 and 2 only
4. 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

Explanation

Option (a) is correct

• Indian Remote Sensing (IRS) satellites are primarily used for earth observation and play a critical role in various developmental and research activities. Their applications include:
• Assessment of crop productivity: IRS satellites monitor agricultural areas, providing data on crop health, yield estimates, and acreage.
• Locating groundwater resources: IRS data is used for identifying potential groundwater zones by analyzing soil and terrain characteristics.
• Mineral exploration: Remote sensing aids in detecting mineral-rich areas through spectral signatures and terrain mapping.
• Example: Resourcesat -1, 2, 2A, Cartosat-1, 2, 2A, 2B, RISAT and 2, Oceansat-2, Megha- Tropiques, SARAL and SCATSAT-1.

Answer: (a) 1, 2 and 3 only; Difficulty Level: Easy