INSAT-3A was a multipurpose geostationary satellite operated by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) for providing telecommunications, television broadcasting, meteorological and search and rescue services. It consists of twenty four transponders – twelve operating in the normal C – band frequency, six in extended C-band and six in Ku–band. INSAT–3A also carries a Ku–band beacon. This satellite was launched on 10th April 2003 from Guiana Space Centre in Kourou and had a mission life of up to 12 years. This mission was carried out in Ariane 5-V160 launch vehicle and has a mass of 2950 Kg. INSAT-3A carried meteorological instruments, including the Very High-Resolution Radiometer (VHRR), for weather monitoring and forecasting.