ISRO Chief S Somanath Celebrates Successful Launch of EOS-8 Satellite
On August 16, ISRO chief S Somanath announced the successful launch of the Earth Observation Satellite-8 (EOS-8) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. The satellite was placed in the precise orbit, marking a significant achievement for the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
Successful Mission
During a press conference, Somanath expressed his happiness over the mission’s success. He stated, “It was a very successful mission. As of today, with the data available, the mission is almost a 100 per cent success with the satellite being placed in the correct orbit and all separation process happening nominally.”
Developmental Flights
The SSLV-D3 was the third and final developmental flight of the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV). The first flight on August 7, 2022, ended in failure, but the second flight on February 10, 2023, was successful. Somanath mentioned that corrections were made after the first flight, leading to the success of the subsequent missions.
Future Plans
ISRO now plans to manufacture and launch the SSLV for commercial purposes. Somanath explained that NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), a Public Sector Undertaking under the Department of Space, will fund and realize the rockets for commercial launches. Additionally, a technology transfer process will be initiated to involve industry partners in the production and launch of these rockets.
Technology Transfer
Somanath highlighted that this is the first time a technology transfer of a satellite launch vehicle will happen in India. The SSLV has been designed to be industry-friendly, with low production costs and short assembly times. The technology transfer process will involve industry partners working with ISRO for two years to understand and implement the technology.
Mission Objectives
The EOS-8 mission aims to design and develop a microsatellite, create payload instruments compatible with the microsatellite bus, and incorporate new technologies required for future operational satellites. The spacecraft is designed for a mission duration of one year.
Doubts Revealed
ISRO -: ISRO stands for Indian Space Research Organisation. It is India’s space agency responsible for space research and exploration.
S Somanath -: S Somanath is the current chief of ISRO. He is a scientist who leads the organization in its space missions.
EOS-8 -: EOS-8 stands for Earth Observation Satellite-8. It is a satellite that helps observe and collect data about the Earth.
Satish Dhawan Space Centre -: The Satish Dhawan Space Centre is a spaceport in Sriharikota, India, where rockets are launched into space.
Sriharikota -: Sriharikota is an island in Andhra Pradesh, India, where the Satish Dhawan Space Centre is located.
Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) -: The Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) is a type of rocket designed by ISRO to launch small satellites into space.
microsatellite -: A microsatellite is a small satellite, usually weighing less than 100 kilograms, used for various space missions.
technology transfer -: Technology transfer means sharing technology and knowledge from one organization to another, often to help develop new products or services.
