The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has achieved another milestone with the successful launch of the Earth Observation Satellite-8 (EOS-08) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. The SSLV-D3 rocket, on its third and final developmental flight, flawlessly positioned EOS-08 into its designated orbit, marking a triumphant conclusion to ISRO’s SSLV Development Project.
Mission details and objectives
The six-and-a-half-hour countdown kicked off at 2:47 am IST, paving the way for the historic launch. The EOS-08 satellite, envisioned for a one-year mission life, is constructed on the Microsat/IMS-1 bus platform and encompasses three vital payloads: the Electro-Optical Infrared Payload (EOIR), the Global Navigation Satellite System-Reflectometry Payload (GNSS-R), and the SiC UV Dosimeter. These cutting-edge payloads are dedicated to diverse applications, including satellite-based surveillance, environmental monitoring, and disaster management.
Technological advancements
Operating in a Circular Low Earth Orbit (LEO) at an altitude of 475 km with an inclination of 37.4°, the EOS-08 satellite boasts a mass of approximately 175.5 kg and generates a power output of around 420 watts. Noteworthy components of the satellite consist of an Integrated Avionics system, redundant systems featuring commercial off-the-shelf components, and a suite of onboard technologies like a flexible solar panel and advanced antennas.
SSLV-D3-EOS-08: A milestone mission
The SSLV-D3-EOS-08 mission represents the culmination of the SSLV’s developmental phase, a 34-meter-tall rocket meticulously crafted to deploy small satellites weighing up to 500 kg into Low Earth Orbit (LEO). Launching from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, the rocket carries the EOIR, GNSS-R, and SiC UV Dosimeter payloads crucial for this significant mission.
Advancing NewSpace India Ltd’s commercial ventures
The success of the SSLV-D3-EOS-08 mission not only marks a pivotal moment for ISRO’s smallest rocket but also propels the capabilities of NewSpace India Ltd, ISRO’s commercial wing, towards future commercial endeavors utilizing SSLVs. This successful mission is anticipated to elevate ISRO’s capacity for deploying advanced small satellite technology across a myriad of applications, encompassing disaster monitoring, environmental surveillance, and beyond.
Payload capabilities
The Earth Observation Satellite housed on the SSLV-D3 platform is based on the Microsat/IMS-1 bus architecture, featuring a one-year mission lifespan. Weighing in at approximately 175.5 kg and generating 420 W of power, the satellite payloads will be instrumental in diverse tasks such as satellite-based surveillance, environmental monitoring, ocean surface wind analysis, and UV radiation monitoring for the upcoming Gaganyaan Mission.
This pioneering ISRO launch underlines India’s unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of space exploration and technology, promising a future filled with innovation and excellence.