To : bhuvan@nrsa.gov.in
Subject : A libre voice on ISRO Bhuvan Project
Dated : ?? August 2009
Dear Sir,
- Recently we have read the newspapers about the initiative of ISRO called Bhuvan. We congratulate “Department of Space” for this initiative. But after visiting the site we noticed a great disappointment for the following listed reasons.
1. Network Requirements
We have noticed that Bhuvan require very highend network requirement. Network Speed: 768 Kbits/sec; Graphics Card: 3D-capable with 32MB of VRAM; Majority of Indians do not have such bandwidth available.
2. Platform dependent
- The Operating system requirement of Bhuvan is “Windows Operating System” with “IE6” as supported browser. This restriction make bhuvan as “Platform Dependent”. Beside Microsoft Windows Operating System, we have GNU/Linux platform also. Considering the growing adoption, use and popularity of GNU/Linux platform for use (both business and personal), shouldn't the Government enable a platform independent and neutral use in all its web manifestations. Not doing so would mean neglecting a huge group of users (students, business and individuals). This will also mean that Bhuvan is forcing such group to buy Microsoft Windows Product which are very costly compare to free of cost available GNU/Linux Operating System. Even if this group is dubbed as an exception, we can assure you that in India such exceptions too run in millions. (??)
3. Browser dependent
- The browser requirement is IE6. There are many reason not to use IE6
- IE6 is not available for GNU/Linux Operating Systems.
- IE6 do not meet with the web standards.
- IE6 is a proprietary software.
- IE6 is highly vulnerable
- Beside IE6 , for running Bhuvan, we need to install an '.exe' plugin file which is impossible to do in a Linux platform. Please look into this issue and help ensure a neutral environment for all visitors on your site and remove technology or organisation specific/based constraints which might stifle widespread access, use and yes- popularity. We look up to the Govt. of India to set precedents and we know we have the right to believe so.
Thanks