APPLE: India’s first three-axis communication satellite Frozen in Time July 22, 2016 Image credit APPLE or Ariane Passenger Payload Experiment satellite, which was launched by Indian Space Research Organization on July 19, became functional on July 22, 1981. The launch was a major achievement in India’s space program history. The experimental communications satellite had a C-Band transponder and was launched by Ariane, which was a launch vehicle of the European Space Agency from Center Spatial Guyanais in French Guiana. Image credit The main highlights of APPLE were: • It was India’s first three-axis stabilised experimental geostationary communication satellite. • It was positioned at the longitude at 102nd meridian east. • The satellite was designed and developed at the ISRO Centre in Bangalore. The Centre looked after the structure, TTC, power, thermal control and sensor system. • After ISRO had tested it, the satellite was sent to France for the final tests, which were conducted in Toulouse and Kourou. • After the test, it was docked with the Ariane launcher and the mission control was done from Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SHAR) in Andhra Pradesh. • It was used for experimentation in TV and radio broadcasting. • The launch was a moment of pride for India and to commemorate it; a stamp was issued on its first anniversary by the Indian Postal Services. • On September 19, 1983, the programme was deactivated. Text by Tasneem Dhinojwala Follow THN on facebook, twitter, and instagram Share on Facebook Share Share on TwitterTweet Share on Pinterest Share Share on LinkedIn Share Share on Digg Share