ISRO Set to Launch SSLV Third Development Flight, EOS-08 Earth Observation Satellite
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is gearing up for a significant milestone with the launch of the Earth Observation Satellite EOS-08, using the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV). The launch is scheduled for August 16, 2024, with a one-hour window starting at 9:17 am from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. This launch represents the third developmental flight of the SSLV, a project designed to bolster India’s capabilities in deploying small satellites into low Earth orbit efficiently and cost-effectively.
The primary goal of the EOS-08 mission is to test new technologies and demonstrate advanced features in satellite design. The mission will showcase a micro satellite equipped with cutting-edge technologies, including an integrated avionics package, structural panels embedded with printed circuit boards and batteries, a flexible solar panel, and a micro-Displacement Gyro Assembly (m-DGA). These innovations are expected to pave the way for future satellite missions that require compact and efficient satellite buses.
The launch sequence of the SSLV-D3/EOS-08 mission is meticulously planned, with multiple stages of ignition and separation ensuring the successful deployment of the satellite. The launch will begin with the Solid Stage 1 Ignition (SS1 Ignition) at 0 seconds, followed by the Solid Stage 2 Ignition (SS2 Ignition) at 123.98 seconds, lifting the rocket to an altitude of 93 km. Subsequent stages include the Solid Stage 1 Separation (SS1 Separation) at 124.34 seconds and the Stage 2 Core Separation (S2C Separation) at 129.34 seconds, with the rocket reaching 101 km in altitude. The satellite payload fairing separation is expected to occur at 158.74 seconds when the rocket reaches 147 km. The final stages of the launch involve the Solid Stage 3 Ignition (SS3 Ignition) at 412.02 seconds, the Solid Stage 3 Separation (SS3 Separation) at 697.62 seconds, and the Velocity Trimming Module (VTM) Ignition at 706.12 seconds, all ensuring the satellite’s placement at an altitude of 475 km. The Earth Observation Satellite 08 (EOS-08) will be separated at 808.90 seconds, followed by the SR-0 DEMOSAT Satellite Separation at 994.90 seconds.
The SSLV project has seen its share of challenges, with the first developmental flight in August 2022 falling short of its intended orbit for the EOS-02 and AzaadiSAT satellites. However, the second developmental flight in February 2023 marked a successful launch, restoring confidence in the SSLV program. The success of the third developmental flight is crucial as it will mark the completion of the SSLV Development Project, making it the smallest rocket capable of carrying satellites weighing up to 500 kg into Low Earth Orbit. This achievement will pave the way for operational missions by Indian industry, supported by NewSpace India Limited, a public sector undertaking.
The SSLV is designed to be a cost-effective solution for launching small satellites, with a quick turnaround time and minimal launch infrastructure requirements. The 34-meter-long, three-stage launch vehicle has a lift-off weight of around 120 tonnes and is equipped with three solid propulsion stages and a liquid propulsion-based Velocity Trimming Module (VTM) as its terminal stage. Its flexibility and efficiency make it an ideal choice for missions that require launching on demand.
In addition to the primary EOS-08 satellite, the SSLV-D3 mission will carry three payloads. The Electro Optical Infrared Payload (EOIR) will capture images in the Mid-Wave and Long-Wave Infrared bands, aiding in surveillance, disaster monitoring, environmental studies, and fire detection. The Global Navigation Satellite System-Reflectometry (GNSS-R) payload will test remote sensing for ocean wind analysis, soil moisture measurement, flood detection, and cryosphere research in the Himalayas. The third payload, the SiC UV Dosimeter, is designed for the Gaganyaan manned mission and will monitor UV radiation, serving as an alarm for high doses of gamma radiation.
Overall, the successful launch of the EOS-08 mission will solidify India’s position in the global space industry, showcasing the country’s ability to develop and deploy cutting-edge satellite technology.