Multi-orbit launch is a record for Isro
8 satellites placed in orbit
India’s most dependable rocket, the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle, scripted history once again, placing eight satellites in multiple orbits in its first-ever multi-orbit mission on Monday.
In one of its longestever missions — extending to 2.15 hours as against the usual 20 minutes — the PSLV-C35 launched the 371-kg Scatsat-1 for weather related studies and seven co-passenger satellites into polar sun synchronous orbit 724 km above the equator.
Three of the co-passenger satellites are from Algeria, one each are from Canada and the USA while the two others are student satellites: Pratham from IITBombay and PISAT from PES University, Bengaluru.
The Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle placed eight satellites in multiple orbits in its first-ever multi-orbit mission on Monday.
Isro used “multiple burn technology” it developed, to position the satellites in different orbits. This involves switching off and turning on the rocket engine in space.
The success of this complex mission could encourage more foreign customers to approach Isro which has placed 79 satellites for global customers so far. Isro chairman A.S. Kirankumar called it a landmark day and the launch, a most satisfying mission.
The 44.4-metre 320tonne rocket roared into the skies at 9.12 am from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, at SHAR, Sriharikota. It reached its intended slot in 16 minutes 56 seconds and placed the Scatsat-1 in orbit. The two solar arrays of the satellite deployed and its control passed on to Isro’s Telemetry, Tracking and Command Network in Bengaluru.
The satellite will be brought to its final operational configuration in a few days, following which it will begin to provide weather related services.
The fourth stage of the rocket coasted over the South Pole and then started ascending towards the northern hemisphere.