From Navigation to Disaster Monitoring, BRIN Introduces the Benefits of Satellites to Students

BOGOR, GARISBUMI.com – Satellite technology helps people find directions of travel and monitor areas affected by disasters. Images recorded from space are also used to observe forests, agriculture and waters for decision making.

These benefits were introduced by the Young Expert Engineer at the Satellite Technology Research Center of the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Ega Asti Anggari, to the students of Bogor Montessori School in the Ibnoe Soebroto Science Area, Rancabungur, Bogor.

Ega invites students to understand satellite technology through examples that are close to everyday life, from navigation on smartphones to communication services.

"Navigation satellites help determine the position and direction of planes, ships, vehicles, and smartphone users. This technology makes it easier for us to find locations, plan trips and improve transportation safety," said Ega.

Meanwhile, communications satellites support telephone, television, radio and internet services. This technology helps connect areas separated by oceans or difficult-to-reach terrain.

Satellite Imagery for Environmental Monitoring

In environmental monitoring, remote sensing satellites record the Earth's surface from space. The resulting data can be used to observe the condition of forests, agricultural land and waters and map areas.

Satellite imagery also helps deal with floods and forest fires. Its ability to monitor areas widely allows related parties to obtain an overview of affected areas as a basis for decision making.

"The functions of satellites vary, depending on their mission. For example, weather satellites are used for weather forecasting and early warning of extreme weather," said Ega.

The explanation shows that each satellite is designed for specific needs. Navigation satellites help determine position, while remote sensing satellites provide information about Earth's surface conditions.

Get to know the National Satellite and NEO-1

In this activity, Ega introduced three national satellites that are in orbit, namely LAPAN-A1, LAPAN-A2, and LAPAN-A3.

LAPAN-A1 has an Earth observation mission. LAPAN-A2 carries out Earth observation, maritime monitoring, amateur radio communications and disaster mitigation missions. The LAPAN-A3 is used for Earth observation, maritime monitoring and monitoring the Earth's magnetic field.

Ega also introduced the Nusantara Earth Observation-1 or NEO-1 which is currently being prepared. The satellite is planned to support Earth observation, maritime monitoring and research into the Earth's magnetic field.

"Satellites are not just technology in outer space. This technology provides real benefits in everyday life," he said.