Which organisation collaborated with ISRO in developing the Vikram 3201 and Kalpana 3201 microprocessors?

Correct option is B

The correct answer is (b) Semiconductor Laboratory (SCL) in Chandigarh.

• The Semiconductor Laboratory (SCL) in Chandigarh collaborated with ISRO in the development of the Vikram 3201 and Kalpana 3201 microprocessors.

• These microprocessors were specifically designed for space applications, ensuring reliability and efficiency under extreme conditions.

• The collaboration aimed to create high-performance, radiation-hardened microprocessors to withstand the challenging environment of space, essential for satellite and spacecraft systems.

Information Booster:

• Vikram 3201 and Kalpana 3201 microprocessors are part of ISRO's broader effort to indigenize its technology and reduce dependency on foreign-made components.

• The Semiconductor Laboratory (SCL), located in Chandigarh, is one of ISRO's key centers for the design, development, and fabrication of semiconductor devices, integrated circuits, and microprocessors.

• The SCL has been pivotal in providing ISRO with customized, space-grade electronics for various space missions, including satellite systems and onboard computers.

Additional Information:

• National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL), located in Bengaluru, is another critical institution in India’s aerospace sector but was not involved in the development of the Vikram 3201 and Kalpana 3201 microprocessors.

History and Facts about ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation)

• Founded: ISRO was established in 1969 under the leadership of Dr. Vikram Sarabhai, the father of the Indian space program. It was formed to harness space technology for national development.

• Headquarters: ISRO's headquarters is located in Bengaluru, Karnataka.

• Key Milestones:

  • Aryabhata (1975): India's first satellite launched with Soviet assistance.

  • SLV (1980): India’s first Satellite Launch Vehicle.

  • PSLV (1994): Workhorse for launching satellites, known for its reliability.

  • Chandrayaan-1 (2008): India’s first mission to the Moon.

  • Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan, 2013): First Asian country to reach Mars and the first to do so on its first attempt.

  • Chandrayaan-2 (2019): Mission to explore the Moon's south pole.

  • Gaganyaan (Planned): India’s first crewed mission to space.

• Key Focus Areas: Satellite communication, Earth observation, navigation (NavIC), space exploration, and satellite development for various national needs (defense, weather, agriculture).

• Notable Achievements: Known for low-cost space missions, ISRO has launched numerous satellites and achieved international success, including collaboration with countries like the U.S., Russia, and European Space Agencies.

• Future Plans: ISRO is focusing on interplanetary exploration, including missions to Venus and the Sun, as well as reusable launch vehicles.