On February 10, 2023, at 9:18 AM IST, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launched the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV-D2) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. The mission aimed to deploy three satellites—EOS-07, Janus-1, and AzaadiSAT-2—into a 450 km circular orbit.

Mission Details

The SSLV-D2's flight lasted approximately 15 minutes, during which it successfully placed the satellites into their intended orbits. The primary payload, EOS-07, is an Earth observation satellite designed to capture high-resolution images for various applications, including agriculture, forestry, and disaster management. Janus-1, a technology demonstrator from the United States, and AzaadiSAT-2, a student-developed satellite from India, were also part of the payload.

Significance of SSLV

The SSLV is designed to cater to the growing demand for launching small satellites. It offers a payload capacity of up to 500 kg to low Earth orbit and 300 kg to sun-synchronous orbit. The vehicle's modular design allows for quick assembly and integration, enabling rapid launch capabilities. This flexibility is expected to make SSLV a preferred choice for commercial satellite launches.

Overcoming Previous Challenges

This successful launch comes after the SSLV's maiden flight in August 2022, which faced challenges due to a sensor anomaly, resulting in the payloads being placed in an incorrect orbit. ISRO identified the root causes, implemented corrective measures, and conducted extensive simulations to ensure the success of the SSLV-D2 mission.

With the success of SSLV-D2, ISRO has demonstrated its capability to provide cost-effective and efficient launch services for small satellites. This positions India competitively in the global small satellite launch market, catering to both domestic and international clients. The SSLV's agility and reduced turnaround time are expected to attract a range of customers, from commercial enterprises to academic institutions.

The SSLV-D2 mission marks a significant milestone for ISRO, showcasing its commitment to advancing space technology and expanding its launch capabilities. The successful deployment of EOS-07, Janus-1, and AzaadiSAT-2 underscores India's growing prowess in space exploration and its readiness to meet the evolving demands of the global satellite market.

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