The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched seven Singaporean satellites using its PSLV rocket from Sriharikota. The main payload, was DS-SAR satellite was developed in Singapore. It will support the satellite imagery requirements of various Singaporean government agencies.
The PSLV-C56 mission also carried six co-passenger customer satellites, including technology demonstration microsatellites, nanosatellites, and an experimental satellite. The launch placed all seven satellites into near-equatorial orbits at an altitude of 535 km.
This successful launch marks India's sixth orbital launch of the year and enhances India's position in the global space industry, strengthening its ties with Singapore and demonstrating ISRO's reliability in deploying satellites for various purposes.
Now lets get into the basics:
Q: What is a rocket launch?
A: A rocket launch is the process of sending a spacecraft or satellite into space using a rocket, which is a vehicle that propels itself through the atmosphere by expelling gases from its engines.
Q: What is a Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV)?
A: The Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) is a type of rocket developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to launch satellites into various orbits, including polar orbits.
Q: How does a rocket launch work?
A: During a rocket launch, the rocket's engines ignite, generating a powerful thrust that propels the rocket upward. As it gains altitude, the rocket follows a predetermined trajectory to reach the desired orbit in space.
Q: What is the main payload of a rocket launch?
A: The main payload is the primary satellite or spacecraft that the rocket is carrying to its designated orbit. It is the main purpose of the launch and typically carries out specific missions like Earth imaging, communication, or scientific research.
Q: What are secondary payloads in a rocket launch?
A: Secondary payloads, also known as co-passenger satellites, are additional smaller satellites or spacecraft that are launched alongside the main payload. These secondary payloads are carried along with the primary satellite and deployed into space during the same mission.
Q: How does a satellite function in space?
A: Once in space, a satellite orbits the Earth and performs various tasks depending on its mission. For example, Earth-imaging satellites capture images of the planet's surface, while communication satellites relay signals for television, internet, and other services.
Q: What is low Earth orbit (LEO)?
A: Low Earth orbit (LEO) is a region of space relatively close to the Earth's surface, typically at altitudes between a few hundred kilometers to about 2,000 kilometers. Satellites in LEO orbit the Earth relatively quickly, completing one orbit in about 90 minutes.
Q: What is a sun-synchronous polar orbit?
A: A sun-synchronous polar orbit is a specific type of orbit where a satellite passes over any given point on Earth at the same local solar time. This type of orbit is useful for Earth observation and scientific missions, as it ensures consistent lighting conditions for imaging and data collection.
Q: How is the life of a rocket's upper stage reduced after satellite deployment?
A: After deploying the satellites into their intended orbits, the upper stage of the rocket may be maneuvered to a lower orbit with the aim of reducing its orbital lifespan. This helps in minimizing space debris and ensuring the rocket stage does not contribute to long-term space clutter.
