As we eagerly anticipate the upcoming Chandrayaan-3 mission, which showcases India's commitment to lunar exploration, we embark on a journey through the launch vehicles of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). ISRO has achieved remarkable milestones in space exploration and satellite technology, bolstering India's scientific prowess and communication capabilities. In this blog, we will explore ISRO's significant launch vehicles, including the SLV-3, PSLV, GSLV, GSLV Mk III, and the Sounding Rocket Vehicle. These vehicles have played instrumental roles in shaping India's space program, enabling remarkable achievements and pushing the boundaries of exploration and technological advancements.
Sounding Rocket Vehicle:
ISRO's Sounding Rocket Vehicle (SRV) is primarily used for atmospheric research, scientific experiments, and technology demonstration. Sounding rockets are suborbital vehicles that are designed to carry scientific instruments and experiments into space for a brief period before returning to Earth. They provide valuable data on atmospheric conditions, study microgravity environments, and test new technologies. The SRV has a smaller payload capacity compared to other launch vehicles, typically ranging from a few tens of kilograms to a few hundred kilograms. ISRO has developed various sounding rockets, including the RH-200, RH-300, and RH-560. These rockets are single-stage vehicles powered by solid propellants and are often used for atmospheric studies, meteorological observations, and ionospheric research.
SLV-3 (Satellite Launch Vehicle-3):
The SLV-3 was ISRO's first indigenous satellite launch vehicle, which operated from 1980 to 1983. It marked a significant milestone in India's space program, demonstrating the country's capability to design and launch its own satellites. The SLV-3 had a limited payload capacity of approximately 40 kg to Low Earth Orbit (LEO). It successfully launched the Rohini satellite, India's first indigenous satellite, on July 18, 1980. The mission placed the Rohini satellite into orbit, making India the sixth country to achieve this feat.
PSLV (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle):
The Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) is one of the most reliable and versatile launch vehicles developed by ISRO. It was first launched in 1993 and has since become the workhorse of ISRO's launch fleet. The PSLV is designed to deliver a variety of satellites into different orbits, including Low Earth Orbit (LEO), Sun-Synchronous Orbit (SSO), and Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO). It has different configurations, each optimized for specific mission requirements. The standard configuration of the PSLV can carry payloads ranging from 500 kg to 1,750 kg to LEO. It has an excellent track record, with numerous successful missions, including the launch of India's Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan) in 2013.
GSLV (Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle):
The Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) was developed by ISRO to meet the growing demand for launching heavier satellites into Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO). The GSLV is a three-stage vehicle that utilizes both solid and liquid propulsion stages. It has two main variants: the GSLV Mk I and the GSLV Mk II. The GSLV Mk I had a lift-off weight of approximately 414 tons and could place satellites weighing up to 1,500 kg into GTO. The GSLV Mk II, an improved version, had a higher lift-off weight of around 418 tons and could carry payloads weighing up to 2,500 kg to GTO.
GSLV Mk III (Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mark III):
The GSLV Mk III, often referred to as the "Bahubali," is ISRO's most powerful launch vehicle. It was specifically developed to cater to India's ambitious space missions, including Chandrayaan-2 and the Gaganyaan program (India's manned space mission). It has a lift-off weight of approximately 640 tons and can deliver payloads weighing up to 10,000 kg to GTO. The successful debut of the GSLV Mk III in 2017 marked a significant milestone for ISRO, showcasing India's ability to launch heavy satellites and positioning the country among the elite space-faring nations.
Conclusion:
ISRO's launch vehicles, including the SLV-3, PSLV, GSLV, GSLV Mk III, and the Sounding Rocket Vehicle, have revolutionized India's space capabilities. From the early successes of SLV-3 and PSLV to the advanced capabilities of GSLV and GSLV Mk III, each launch vehicle has pushed the boundaries of India's space exploration and communication capabilities. Additionally, the Sounding Rocket Vehicle enables critical atmospheric research and scientific experiments. Together, these launch vehicles have propelled India's scientific progress, strengthened communication networks, and advanced our understanding of space. ISRO's commitment to innovation and excellence continues to inspire and drive India's space endeavors, positioning the nation as a frontrunner in the global space arena.
Note for UPSC Aspirants: For UPSC aspirants interested in exploring further, here are some keywords to guide your research: Chandrayaan-3 mission, Space programs and missions in India, Satellite communication and broadcasting in India, International treaties and agreements related to space
Source: isro.gov.in
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