Making of a Satellite Centre: The Genesis of ISRO's URSC

This book tells the story of the evolution of the Satellite Center which started from a small Satellite Systems Division in 1967 with a handful of engineers to a vibrant R&D center which is playing the lead role in the Indian Satellite Program. India's space program is unique as it is driven by societal applications. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has centers dedicated to various space applications. The ISRO Satellite Centre, now known as the UR Rao Satellite Centre (URSC), has evolved as lead center for Satellite Technology over five decades and has developed state-of-the-art satellites for applications such as remote sensing, satellite communication and space science. Through the story of URSC, the book describes the challenges of putting together new research and development centers and programs and conveys the importance of leadership and project management skills required to undertake such a task. This book is of interest to researchers, professionals, and administrators involved in the development of new R&D facilities and also to space scientists and space enthusiasts across the world.

Dr. Prem Shankar Goel pursued his B.E. in Electrical Engineering from University of Jodhpur, M.E. in Applied Electronics and Servomechanism from Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore, and Ph.D. from Bangalore University, India. He developed spin axis orientation system Bhaskara I & II satellites, magnetic control for spinning Rohini series satellites, momentum biased 3-axis control system for APPLE, zero momentum biased 3-axis control system for IRS, and V configuration momentum biased attitude control system for highly stabilized INSAT-2. He developed very agile control system with step and stare capability for spot imaging mission TES and guided the evolution of reentry capability through SRE mission. He was President of Indian National Academy of Engineering (INAE) and Vice President, Aeronautical Society of India, Dr. Vikram Sarabhai Distinguished Professor at ISRO. Dr. Goel was awarded the prestigious Indian civilian Award Padma Shree in 2001. He received several otherawards including Distinguished Scientist Award of ISRO and lifetime achievement award of INAE.  He is Fellow of Indian Academy of Sciences, Bangalore; National Academy of Sciences, Allahabad; Indian National Science Academy (INSA), New Delhi, among others. Currently, Dr. Goel is Honorary Distinguished Professor at ISRO HQ, Chairman, Comprehensive Technical Review Committee, GEOSAT Program, and Chairing Apex Committee for planning Communication, Remote Sensing and Navigation satellites of ISRO. Dr. Goel has contributed significantly to mission planning for remote sensing, communication, and scientific missions and authored over hundred research papers in referred journals and conferences.