U.S. space agency NASA has signed an agreement with Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to use data from Indian satellite Oceansat—2, for various American agencies for research activities, including weather forecasting.
Launched on September 23, 2009 using the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle from Sriharikota, Oceansat-2; is designed to provide service continuity for operational users of the Ocean Colour Monitor (OCM) instrument on Oceansat-1.
The agreement with the ISRO will lead to the use of data from Oceansat-2 for various U.S. agencies for research, education and other activities of public good including weather forecasting.
The Letter of Intent in this regard was signed by Michael H Freilich, Director Earth Science Division, National Aeronautics and Space Administration; Mary E Kicza Assistant Administrator for Satellite and Information Science of the Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration; and R.R. Navalgund, Director, Space Application Centre, ISRO.
The signing ceremony was done in Washington on the sidelines of Sixth Plenary Session of the Group on Earth Observations (GEO).
The Deputy Chief of Mission, Indian Embassy, Arun K Singh; and Deviprasad Karnik, Counsellor (Space) were also present on the occasion.
