PSLV launches Cartosat-2, 30 nano satellites
The Indian space agency ISRO on Friday successfully launched its workhorse rocket PSLV carrying ‘eye in the sky’ Cartosat-2 series satellite — a dedicated satellite for the defence forces — and 30 nano satellites into orbit.
The Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle, in its 40th flight (PSLV-C38), lifted off majestically from the first launch pad, Satish Dhawan Space Centre at 9.29 am and injected the satellites into orbit about 27 minutes after lift off, amid applause from scientists.
The 44.4 metre tall PSLVC38 carried the earth observation satellite — Cartosat2 series satellite as the primary payload along with 30 co-passenger satellites totally weighing 955 kg.
ISRO said after a flight of 16 minutes the Cartosat-2 series satellite achieved a polar Sun Synchronous Orbit of 505 km inclined at an angle of 97.44 degree to the equator very close to the intended orbit.
Later all the other 30 satellites successfully separated from the PSLV in a predetermined sequence.
After separation of the satellite, the two solar arrays of Cartosat-2 series satellite were deployed automatically and ISRO's Telemetry, Tracking and Command Network (ISTRAC) at Bengaluru took over the control of the satellite, an ISRO release said.
“In the coming days, the satellite will be brought to its final operational configuration following which it will begin to provide various remote sensing services”, it said.
With the launch of the third spacecraft in the Cartosat-2 series, India’s ‘eye in the sky’ is set to become sharper and wider.