ISRO EOS-08 Satellite Launch: SSLV-D3 Mission Soars to New Heights

ISRO EOS-08 Satellite Launch: On August 16, 2024, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) achieved a significant milestone with the successful launch of the SSLV-D3-EOS-08 mission. The Earth Observation Satellite (EOS-08) was propelled into space aboard the third and final developmental flight of ISRO’s Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. The rocket lifted off precisely at 9:17 AM IST, marking the culmination of ISRO’s SSLV Development Project.

A Glimpse of the SSLV and Satellite Specifications

The SSLV-D3 rocket, standing 34 meters tall and with a diameter of 2 meters, is designed to carry payloads up to approximately 500 kilograms into Low Earth Orbit (LEO). This three-stage vehicle, with a lift-off weight of around 120 tonnes, demonstrates ISRO’s advancement in small satellite launch technology. The EOS-08 satellite, weighing 175.5 kilograms, is equipped with advanced payloads designed for a variety of applications:

• Electro-Optical Infrared Payload (EOIR): This instrument captures images in the Mid-Wave Infrared (MIR) and Long-Wave Infrared (LWIR) bands, providing valuable data for satellite-based surveillance, disaster monitoring, environmental studies, and more.
• Global Navigation Satellite System-Reflectometry Payload (GNSS-R): This payload uses GNSS signals to analyze ocean surface winds, soil moisture, cryosphere studies, flood detection, and inland waterbody monitoring.
• Silicon Carbide Ultraviolet Dosimeter: Monitoring UV irradiance and serving as a gamma radiation sensor, this payload supports the Gaganyaan Mission and other space activities.

The satellite is designed to operate in a Circular Low Earth Orbit (LEO) at an altitude of 475 kilometers with an inclination of 37.4°, and has a mission life of one year. It generates around 420 watts of power and interfaces with the SSLV-D3 launch vehicle.

Boosting ISRO’s Commercial Capabilities

The successful launch of the SSLV-D3-EOS-08 not only signifies a technological achievement but also bolsters ISRO’s commercial ambitions. The mission provides a significant boost to NewSpace India Ltd (NSIL), ISRO’s commercial arm, enhancing its capacity to offer commercial satellite launches using SSLV technology. This development follows the successful launch of the SSLV-D2-EOS-07 in February 2023 and supports ISRO’s ongoing efforts to expand its portfolio in the satellite launch market.

Community and Industry Reactions

The launch drew enthusiastic attention from students, local residents, and space enthusiasts who gathered at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre to witness the historic event. Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the achievement, emphasizing the role of the cost-effective SSLV in advancing space missions and encouraging private industry participation.

Dr. Subba Rao Pavuluri, CMD of Ananth Technologies Pvt. Ltd (ATL), expressed pride in the collaboration with ISRO, highlighting ATL’s contribution to 100 satellites and 80 launch vehicles, underscoring the growing partnership between Indian space agencies and private industry.

Looking Ahead

The SSLV-D3-EOS-08 mission underscores ISRO’s commitment to innovation and excellence in space technology. With the completion of the SSLV Development Project, ISRO is well-positioned to leverage this technology for future missions and commercial opportunities, further strengthening India’s leadership in space exploration and satellite deployment.

As ISRO moves forward, the success of the SSLV-D3-EOS-08 mission marks a new chapter in India’s space journey, promising continued advancements and contributions to global space research and commercial satellite services.