ISRO's PSLV-C49 carrying earth observation satellite lifts off successfully

Sriharikota, November 07: In yet successful mission, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully lifted off its workhorse rocket PSLV-C49 carrying India’s earth observation satellite EOS-01 and nine other customer satellites from India's first launch pad at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota.

 

The launch was scheduled at 15:02 hours IST today however the mission director authorised the launch of PSLV-C49 at 15:12 hours (3:12 pm) due to bad weather. The countdown for the launch of the EOS-01 started on 6 November. EOS-01 primary satellite separated in the fourth stage of PSLVC49 and injected into orbit. The mission marks the 51st mission for the PSLV-C49 rocket vehicle. This was India’s first mission from her launch pad at Sriharikota this calendar year.

 

 

The RISAT-2BR2 is a radar imaging satellite that features synthetic aperture radar (SAR) capable of shooting pictures in all weather conditions. The satellite can take pictures day and night and will be useful for surveillance as well as civilian activities. EOS-01 is an earth observation satellite intended for applications in agriculture, forestry, and disaster management support. Its operational life will be five years, providing crucial data, seamlessly.

 

 

 

 

The nine foreign satellites are from Lithuania (1-technology demonstrator), Luxembourg (4 maritime application satellites by Kleos Space), and the US (4-Lemur multi-mission remote sensing satellites).

 

 

 

It is worth to be noted that, nine international satellites which were launched by ISRO come under a commercial agreement with the NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) which functions under the Department of Space. ISRO has used the PSLV rocket's DL variant that will have two strap-on booster motors. This rocket variant was used the first time to put into orbit Microsat R satellite on January 24, 2019.

 

Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) is the third generation launch vehicle of India. It is the first Indian launch vehicle to be equipped with liquid stages. The PSLV is a four-stage/engine rocket powered by solid and liquid fuels alternatively with six booster motors strapped on to the first stage to give higher thrust during the initial flight moments.