The SSLV is carrying Earth Observation Satellite-02 and a co-passenger satellite AzadiSat.
New Delhi:
The maiden flight of a new Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) rocket carrying two satellites has run into trouble after the rocket experienced data loss in the final stages of flight.
ISRO scientists and engineers are currently trying to understand whether the 120-tonne Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) was capable of placing the two satellites in a stable orbit.
Until this becomes clear, the mission cannot be declared successful.
“SSLV-D1 performed as expected in all phases. In the last phase of the mission, some data loss is occurring. We are analyzing the data to conclude the final outcome of the mission with respect to achieving a stable orbit. ISRO Chairman S Somnath said.
The SSLV is carrying Earth Observation Satellite-02 and a co-passenger satellite AzadiSat – which has been developed by the student team of ‘Space Kids India‘, an aerospace organization that aims to build government school students with a basic understanding and knowledge of space.
“Azadisat” consists of 75 payloads built by 750 school students to mark the 75th anniversary of independence. The girl students who designed the satellite also witnessed the launch of SSLV-D1 at the spaceport in Sriharikota.
SSLV-D1/EOS-02 Mission: The first flight of SSLV has been completed. All steps performed as expected. Data loss has been observed during the terminal phase. It is being analysed. Will be updated soon.
— ISRO (@isro) 7 August 2022
Shreya, a student from Telangana said, “Three groups from our school have participated in this SSLV launch. I am very glad that we got this opportunity. We really worked hard on it and today we will see the launch of AzadiSat satellite. ” As quoted by news agency ANI.
The SSLV is 34 meters long, about 10 meters shorter than PSLV and has a vehicle diameter of two meters as compared to PSLV’s 2.8 metres.
This was the first launch of SSLV by the space agency after the successful mission launch through its reliable workhorse Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), the Geosynchronous Launch Vehicle (GSLV).
With input from agencies