PSLV-C61 Mission Failure
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) faced setback with the failure of the PSLV-C61 mission on May 18, 2025. This mission aimed to launch the Earth observation satellite EOS-09. The failure occurred in the third stage of the flight. This incident marks a rare occurrence for the PSLV, a vehicle known for its reliability and success in satellite launches.
Overview of PSLV
The Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) is one of ISRO’s primary launch vehicles. It has been operational since the 1990s. The PSLV is designed to deploy satellites into various orbits. It supports Earth observation, navigation, and geostationary missions. The PSLV has a remarkable success rate, having completed 63 launches before the recent failure.
Structure of PSLV
The PSLV consists of four stages. The first stage (PS1) uses solid rocket motors with six strap-on boosters. The second stage (PS2) employs a storable liquid rocket engine known as the Vikas engine. The third stage (PS3) uses a solid rocket motor for high thrust. The fourth stage (PS4) contains two Earth-storable liquid engines. This configuration allows the PSLV to achieve the necessary velocity and altitude for satellite deployment.
Historical Failures of PSLV
The PSLV has experienced two previous failures. The first was in 1993 during the inaugural flight, where onboard software issues caused the mission to crash into the ocean. The second failure occurred in 2017, when the heat shield failed to separate. This prevented the IRNSS-1H satellite from being deployed into its intended orbit. Both failures highlight the challenges faced in space missions.
Recent Mission Details
The EOS-09 satellite was intended to be placed in a sun-synchronous polar orbit at an altitude of 597 km. It was equipped with a Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) payload. This technology allows for high-resolution imaging of the Earth, even in adverse weather conditions. The failure of PSLV-C61 is particularly concerning as it follows another recent failure of the GSLV during ISRO’s 100th mission.
Importance of PSLV in ISRO’s Strategy
The PSLV has been very important in establishing India’s presence in space. It is known for its cost-effectiveness compared to international launch vehicles. The PSLV has successfully launched numerous satellites, including those for foreign nations. Its versatility allows it to handle a variety of payloads, reinforcing ISRO’s reputation as a reliable launch provider.
Future Prospects for ISRO
Despite the recent failures, ISRO remains committed to advancing its space capabilities. The agency continues to innovate and improve its technology. Future missions will likely focus on enhancing reliability and addressing the issues encountered in recent launches.
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