ISRO Launches Final SSLV Carrying Earth Observation Satellite
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) achieved something big in science. On Friday, ISRO launched the third flight of the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV). This successful launch is very important. It’s the last SSLV mission ISRO will handle before the private sector takes over.
SSLV: Compact and Capable
The SSLV is a rocket made for launching small and micro-satellites. It meets the rising demand for these services. The SSLV is compact and agile. It measures 2 meters in diameter and is 34 meters long. The rocket has three stages that use solid fuel. It also has a final stage that uses liquid fuel. The SSLV can carry up to 500 kg of payload to low Earth orbit.
The primary payload for this mission was the 175-kg Earth Observation Satellite, EOS-08, which was successfully placed into orbit. ISRO’s Chairman, S. Somanath, reported that the injection conditions were precise, with no deviations, and the final orbit will be confirmed after tracking.
SSLV: Development and Commercialization
The SSLV’s development is an important step for ISRO. It helps the organization sell its launch services and meet the global need for small satellite launches. The SSLV’s latest successful mission comes after a close failure in August 2022. ISRO fixed the issues in the next launch in February 2023.
The EOS-08 mission aims to achieve several main goals. These include designing and building a microsatellite. It also involves creating instruments that work with the microsatellite bus. Additionally, the mission aims to bring in new technologies for future satellites.
“The third developmental flight of SSLV is successful. The SSLV-D3 placed EOS-08 precisely into the orbit.”
This successful launch of the SSLV ends ISRO’s direct role in the launch vehicle program. A private company will now handle all future SSLV missions. New Space India Limited (NSIL), ISRO’s commercial division, has signed an agreement. This agreement is to launch an Australian satellite using a privately-run SSLV.
Future of Indian Space Program
ISRO is moving the SSLV program to private companies. This is an exciting time for the Indian space industry. The SSLV program stands for Small Satellite Launch Vehicle program. Recently, they launched the EOS-08 satellite successfully. This was the last mission for SSLV under ISRO. It shows ISRO’s technical skill and their dedication to improving India’s space capabilities.
Keep an eye on ENTECH Online for the latest updates and insights on India’s space exploration endeavors.
