The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launched the third development flight—the last one it is authorised to undertake—of the small satellite launch vehicle (SSLV) on 16 August. According to the space agency, the vehicle is carrying the 175-kg earth observation satellite EOS-08 on board.
ISRO said the primary objectives of the SSLV-D3-EOS-08 mission include designing and developing a microsatellite, creating payload instruments compatible with the microsatellite bus, and incorporating new technologies required for future operational satellites.
The smallest SSLV rocket, which measures about 34 metre in height, was launched from the first launch pad at 9:19 am with a one-hour window period.
ISRO chief S Somanathon X said, “The third developmental flight of SSLV – SSLV-D3/EOS-08 has been successfully accomplished. The rocket has placed the spacecraft in a very precise orbit as planned. I find that there are no deviations in the injection conditions. The final orbit will be known after tracking, but the current indication is that everything is perfect. The EOS-08 satellite, as well as the SR-08 satellite, has also been injected after manoeuvres. Congratulations to the SSLV-D3 team and the project team. With this third developmental flight of SSLV, we can declare the development process of SSLV is completed.”
With today’s (August 16, 2024) mission, ISRO completes the developmental flight of the smallest rocket, which can carry satellites weighing up to 500 kg and can place them into Low Earth Orbit (up to 500 km above Earth). Q `
The mission would also boost NewSpace India Ltd, the commercial arm of ISRO, to take up commercial launches using such Small Satellite Launch Vehicles with the industry. The spacecraft has a mission life of one year.
