Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur (IIT-K) is all set to add another feather to its cap.

For the purpose of assembling information regarding flood, drought and disaster management, the IIT-K, in collaboration with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has developed a micro satellite named as ‘Jugnu’.

While giving this information to the media persons, Prof. Sanjoy Govind Dhande, director IIT-K said, “The satellite is being developed by the IIT-K in collaboration with the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO). After the completion the satellite will be handed over to ISRO in November for further test and launch.”

It is learnt that the satellite, very near for its completion, would be tested by ISRO in November.

Earlier in August 2008, ISRO and IIT-K has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for developing a micro satellite dedicated for agricultural purpose. The base station would receive all the photographs regarding agriculture, weather and soil from the hi-tech cameras fitted in the satellite.

Prof Dhande added that the mechanical engineering team of its institute still needs another six to seven months to finish the project. He further said that nearly Rs 2.5 crore has been spent to develop the satellite.

Dr. NS Vyas, Head of mechanical department, IIT-K, said that the ‘Jugnu’, which would be launched from Satish Dhawan Space Centre, located in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh is extremely cost effective and reliable launch vehicle.

After its launch, the satellite ‘Jugnu' will be continuously monitored and controlled by ground station located at the campus.

The main objective behind the launching of `Jugnu' is to come up with a long term infrastructure and human resources in the IIT-K for future space research programmes in the institute in collaboration with ISRO.

It may be recalled that Dr. David Morrison (Director, NASA Lunar Science Institute) has also appreciated the efforts taken by the IIT-K students. Morrison was the chief guest in `Techkriti' which concluded on Sunday.