The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched the SSLV-D3-EOS-08 mission, which deployed a small satellite designed for Earth observation. This mission follows the successful SSLV-D2-EOS-07 mission launched in February 2023.

Development Milestones

The SSLV-D3-EOS-08 marks the third flight in ISRO’s Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) series, completing the development phase of this new rocket. Earlier in 2024, ISRO also launched the PSLV-C58/XpoSat mission in January and the GSLV-F14/INSAT-3DS mission in February, demonstrating their continued progress in space exploration.

Launch Details

Originally planned for August 15, the SSLV-D3-EOS-08 launch was rescheduled to August 16 at 9:19 am IST, taking place at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre. The SSLV rocket, standing about 34 meters tall, is capable of carrying payloads up to 500 kg into Low Earth Orbit (LEO).

Mission Objectives

The primary goals of the SSLV-D3-EOS-08 mission are to:

• Build and launch a microsatellite.
• Develop instruments to work in conjunction with this microsatellite.
• Implement new technology for future satellites.

Satellite Specifications

The Earth Observation Satellite launched in this mission:

• Weighs around 175.5 kg.
• Uses 420 watts of power.
• Is based on the Microsat/IMS-1 bus.
• Has a mission life of one year and was launched using the SSLV-D3 rocket.

Payload Details

The satellite carries three key instruments:

• Electro-Optical Infrared Payload (EOIR): Captures images using infrared light for surveillance, disaster monitoring, and environmental studies.
• Global Navigation Satellite System-Reflectometry Payload (GNSS-R): Utilizes GPS signals to study ocean winds, soil moisture, and flood detection.
• SiC UV Dosimeter: Measures ultraviolet light for the Gaganyaan Mission and acts as a sensor for gamma radiation.

The successful launch of the SSLV-D3-EOS-08 is expected to enhance the capabilities of NewSpace India Ltd, ISRO’s commercial arm, potentially expanding India’s role in the global satellite launch market.

About Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV)

The Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) is a compact Indian rocket designed for quickly launching small satellites. It can carry about 500 kg of payload to sun-synchronous orbits and can be assembled in just 72 hours. The SSLV made its first flight in August 2022 and is used for commercial satellite launches. It is modeled after the successful Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) and offers flexibility for multiple missions, boosting India’s launch capabilities.