New Delhi. Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has launched earth observation satellite RISAT-2B using world class technology Radial Rib Antenna (RRA).

This world class technology was demonstrated in-orbit at 2:20 pm IST in RISAT-2B spacecraft on May 22. This 3.6 metre antenna was folded & stowed during launch and later successfully unfurled & deployed in-orbit. The deployment was completed in 7 mins and 20 seconds.

Development of light weight structure, hinge mechanism, design of newer mesh, actuators etc., were some of the challenges involved in the realisation of this antenna. All such key technological elements require very high level of expertise in handling space based antenna system, excellent workmanship and building redundancy apart from managing its in-orbit deployment.

The antenna was realised indigenously by ISRO team in a record time of 13 months. Alternate import option would have taken about three to four years. Successful deployment of RRA in RISAT-2B establishes the combination of all skills mastered by ISRO indigenously.