Identify the missile testing and launching site located off the coast of Odisha, India.

Correct option is C

The correct answer is (c) Wheeler Island (Abdul Kalam Island)

Explanation:

• Wheeler Island, now known as Abdul Kalam Island, is a major missile testing facility of India.

• It is located off the coast of Odisha in the Bay of Bengal, near the Dhamra port.

• The island is part of the Integrated Test Range (ITR) used by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

• Several strategic missiles such as Agni, Prithvi, and other ballistic missiles have been successfully tested from this site.

• In 2015, the island was officially renamed Abdul Kalam Island in honor of former President and scientist Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam.

Information Booster:

• The Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur and Abdul Kalam Island is used for testing ballistic and tactical missiles.

• The island provides a safe isolated environment for long-range missile launches over the Bay of Bengal.

Additional Knowledge:

ISTRAC Ground Station (Option a)

• It stands for Indian Space Tracking and Command Network.

• Operated by ISRO to track and control satellites and launch vehicles.

• It is not a missile testing site.

Barren Island (Option b)

• Located in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

• It is the only active volcano in India.

• It has no role in missile testing.

North Eastern Space Applications Centre (NESAC) (Option d)

• Located in Umiam, Meghalaya.

• It is a joint initiative of ISRO and the Government of India.

• It focuses on space technology applications for the North Eastern region, not missile testing.