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ISRO’s Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) will launch experimental satellites, including EOS-8 and Space Rickshaw’s SR-0 Demo Sat, on Independence Day, marking a significant step towards India’s commercial space ambitions.
Key Points
- ISRO’s Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) will launch EOS-8 and SR-0 Demo Sat, made by start-up Space Rickshaw, into low Earth orbit on India’s Independence Day.
- The SSLV, designed to carry small satellites, can be turned around within a week, offering a cost-effective and efficient solution for satellite launches.
- EOS-8 is equipped with futuristic technologies, including a unique instrument to measure UV light exposure, which could be used in India’s Gaganyaan mission.
- SSLV’s success could lead to the technology being transferred to the industry, with the potential to make India a major player in the global small satellite market.
- The global small satellite market is projected to grow significantly, with India poised to increase its share, aiming to boost its space economy to $44 billion by 2033.
On India’s Independence Day, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to launch its Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV), marking a significant milestone in the nation’s space exploration journey. The SSLV, often referred to as ISRO’s “baby rocket,” will carry two experimental satellites: the EOS-8 earth imaging satellite and the SR-0 Demo Sat, developed by the Chennai-based start-up Space Rickshaw.
This launch comes after ISRO’s successful SSLV mission in February 2023, following an initial setback in 2022. The upcoming flight is crucial as ISRO aims to transfer SSLV technology to the industry, positioning the vehicle as a key player in the burgeoning small satellite market. The SSLV is specifically designed to cater to the growing global demand for small satellites, offering a fast turnaround time and cost-effective launch solution. Standing 34 meters tall and weighing just 120 tonnes, the SSLV can carry up to 500 kilograms into a low Earth orbit, making it a nimble and versatile launcher.
Dr. M Sankaran, Director of the UR Rao Satellite Center (URSC), described the EOS-8 satellite as “a trailblazing satellite packed with new futuristic technologies.” One of its standout features is an instrument that measures ultraviolet (UV) light exposure. This instrument could play a critical role in ISRO’s upcoming Gaganyaan mission by assessing the amount of cancer-causing UV radiation that astronauts might face in space.
The SSLV’s design prioritizes simplicity, flexibility, and efficiency. According to ISRO Chairman Dr. S. Somanath, the rocket’s production-friendly nature makes it a game changer for India’s commercial launch capabilities. The SSLV can be produced on a large scale, with minimal tests required before launch, and can even be stored for extended periods before use.
The commercial potential of the SSLV is immense. With an estimated launch cost of Rs 30-35 crore, the SSLV is one of the most affordable launchers in its class. As the global small satellite industry is projected to grow from $3.25 billion in 2020 to $13.71 billion by 2030, India is well-positioned to capture a significant share of this market. The successful commercialization of SSLV technology could enable India to become a major player in the global space economy, contributing to a projected increase in India’s space economy value to $44 billion by 2033.
Dr. Sankaran expressed confidence in the SSLV’s capabilities, stating, “There is no risk in flying a high-end satellite on a developmental flight of the SSLV.” If the upcoming launch is successful, ISRO plans to transfer the SSLV technology to an industrial partner, furthering India’s ambitions in space.
This Independence Day launch symbolizes not only a technical achievement for ISRO but also a strategic step towards securing India’s future in the competitive global space market. As ISRO continues to innovate and expand its capabilities, the SSLV represents a critical tool in the nation’s quest to become a leader in space technology and commercial space ventures.
