The Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) on Friday successfully launched the Earth Observation Satellite (EOS-08) aboard the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV-D3) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.
This mission marks the culmination of the SSLV development phase, paving the way for future operational missions by Indian industry and NewSpace India Limited (NSIL).
The SSLV-D3 mission, initially scheduled for August 15 but postponed by a day, is a significant step forward in Isro's efforts to provide low-cost access to space.
The launch window opened at 09:17 IST, and approximately 17 minutes after liftoff, the EOS-08 satellite, along with the SR-0 DEMOSAT, was successfully placed into a 475 km circular orbit.
WHAT IS EOS-08?
EOS-08, weighing around 175.5 kg, is an Earth Observation Satellite designed to demonstrate new technologies and payload instruments compatible with microsatellite buses.
Built on Isro's Microsat/IMS-1 bus, it carries three advanced payloads: the Electro Optical Infrared Payload (EOIR), the Global Navigation Satellite System-Reflectometry payload (GNSS-R), and the SiC UV Dosimeter.
The EOIR payload will capture images in both the Mid-Wave and Long-Wave infrared bands, enabling it to function effectively during day and night. Mid-Wave Infrared (MWIR) and Long-Wave Infrared (LWIR) are types of light that we can't see with our eyes but can feel as heat. Satellites use these types of light to observe and study the Earth.
The GNSS-R payload demonstrates remote sensing capabilities for ocean surface wind analysis and soil moisture assessment, while the SiC UV Dosimeter monitors UV irradiance, serving as a high-dose alarm sensor for gamma radiation.
UV irradiance is a way to measure how much ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun is reaching a certain area. UV light is a type of energy that comes from the sun and is invisible to our eyes, but it can cause sunburn and other effects on the skin.
BIG DAY FOR SSLV
The SSLV-D3 mission highlights significant advancements in satellite mainframe systems, including an Integrated Avionics system that combines multiple functions into a single unit, supporting up to 400 GB of data storage.
This mission demonstrates Isro's commitment to innovation and its ability to adapt to the growing demand for smaller satellite launches.
With the successful completion of the SSLV development project, Isro is poised to expand its capabilities in the global space market, offering flexible and efficient solutions for launching mini, micro, and nanosatellites.
The EOS-08 mission not only enhances India's space capabilities but also strengthens its position in the international space community.
Source: India Today