ISRO Launched SSLV-D3-EOS-08

August 17, 2024

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launched the SSLV-D3-EOS-08 mission. This mission launched a small satellite designed to observe Earth. It follows the success of the earlier SSLV-D2-EOS-07 mission, which was launched in February 2023.

Development Milestones

The SSLV-D3-EOS-08 is the third flight in ISRO’s Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) series. This mission completes the development phase of this new rocket. Earlier in 2024, ISRO successfully launched two other missions: PSLV-C58/XpoSat in January and GSLV-F14/INSAT-3DS in February.

Launch Details

Originally set for August 15, the launch has been rescheduled to August 16 at 9:19 am IST. The launch occurred at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre. The SSLV rocket is about 34 meters tall and can carry payloads weighing up to 500 kg into Low Earth Orbit (LEO).

Mission Objectives

The goals of the SSLV-D3-EOS-08 mission include:

Building and launching a microsatellite.
Developing instruments that will work with this microsatellite.
Using new technology for future satellites.

Satellite Specifications

The Earth Observation Satellite involved in this mission:

Weighs about 175.5 kg.
Uses 420 watts of power.
Is built on the Microsat/IMS-1 bus.
Has a mission life of one year and will be launched using the SSLV-D3 rocket.

Payload Details

The satellite has three main instruments:

Electro-Optical Infrared Payload (EOIR): Takes pictures using infrared light to help with surveillance, disaster monitoring, and environmental studies.

Global Navigation Satellite System-Reflectometry Payload (GNSS-R): Uses GPS signals to analyze ocean winds, and soil moisture, and detect floods.

SiC UV Dosimeter: Measures ultraviolet light for the Gaganyaan Mission and acts as a sensor for gamma radiation.

Commercial Implications

The successful launch of SSLV-D3-EOS-08 is expected to boost the capabilities of NewSpace India Ltd, ISRO’s commercial arm. This will likely open up more opportunities in the satellite launch market.

About Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV)

The Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) is an Indian rocket designed for quickly launching small satellites. It can carry about 500 kg of payload to sun-synchronous orbits and can be assembled in just 72 hours. SSLV had its first flight in August 2022 and is used for commercial satellite launches. It is based on the successful Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) and offers flexibility for multiple missions, enhancing India’s launch capabilities.

« Previous Post Next Post »