On August 7, 2023, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched the SSLV-D3 mission carrying the EOS-07 satellite along with two co-passenger satellites, Janus-1 and AzaadiSAT-2. The mission used ISRO’s Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV-D3), designed for deploying small satellites into low Earth orbit.
Key Details of the Mission:
- SSLV (Small Satellite Launch Vehicle): This is ISRO’s compact, cost-effective launcher specifically tailored for small payloads, targeting both commercial and government satellite launches.
- EOS-07 (Earth Observation Satellite): The primary satellite in the mission, EOS-07, is an earth observation satellite, part of ISRO’s series for environmental and resource monitoring, disaster management, and weather observation. The EOS-07 satellite weighs around 156.3 kg and carries advanced sensors for gathering critical data.
- Co-Passenger Satellites:
- Janus-1: A U.S.-based satellite, built by Antaris, weighing 10.2 kg.
- AzaadiSAT-2: A satellite developed by Indian schoolgirls, weighing 8.7 kg, and part of ISRO’s initiative to engage young students in space science.
- Launch Profile: The SSLV-D3 launched from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. The vehicle successfully placed all three satellites into their intended orbits.
- Technical Innovations: The mission demonstrated ISRO’s growing expertise in modular small satellite launches. SSLV aims to bridge the gap between larger PSLV and GSLV missions, offering a quicker turnaround and flexible launch options for smaller payloads. The SSLV-D3 also incorporated design improvements based on lessons from previous SSLV missions.
Significance:
The SSLV-D3 is part of ISRO’s broader strategy to capture the growing small satellite launch market, both domestically and internationally. With the rising demand for earth observation, communication, and scientific research satellites, SSLV’s capability provides a cost-effective solution to launch satellites with shorter lead times【6†source】【7†source】.
