1. What is GSLV-II?
The Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle-II (GSLV-II) is an Indian space launch vehicle developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). It is designed to place satellites into geostationary orbits and has played a crucial role in India’s space exploration efforts.
2. Why was GSLV-II called the “Naughty Boy”?
GSLV-II earned the nickname “Naughty Boy” due to its spotty success rate in the early years of its development and operation. This moniker reflected the challenges and unpredictability associated with its missions.
3. What recent achievements have changed GSLV-II’s reputation?
Recent successful launches, including the placement of the INSAT-3DS and NVS-01 satellites in the Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO), have significantly improved GSLV-II’s reputation. These successes have led to new sobriquets like “mature,” “obedient,” “smarty,” and “natty,” indicating its improved reliability and performance.
4. How does GSLV-II compare to other launch vehicles?
GSLV-II is part of ISRO’s fleet of launch vehicles, including the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) and GSLV Mark III (renamed as Launch Vehicle Mark III or LVM3). While PSLV is renowned for its robustness and reliability in launching satellites into polar orbits, GSLV-II and GSLV Mark III are designed for heavier payloads and geostationary orbits.
GSLV Mark III, in particular, can carry up to four tonne satellites in GTO and eight tonne payloads in low earth orbits.
5. What is the significance of GSLV-II’s indigenously developed Cryogenic Upper Stage?
The indigenously developed Cryogenic Upper Stage is a crucial component that significantly enhances GSLV-II’s capability. Generating a nominal thrust of 75 kiloNewton, it allows ISRO to launch up to two-tonne class of communication satellites into geostationary orbits. This development marks a significant achievement in India’s self-reliance in space technology.
6. How has GSLV-II’s performance evolved over the years?
The GSLV-II’s journey from its first development flight in 2001 to its recent successes demonstrates significant improvement and maturation. Despite facing back-to-back failures in 2006 and 2010, ISRO’s persistent efforts in developing and refining the launch vehicle have led to its current status as a reliable satellite launch vehicle, likened to “matured wine.”
SRIRAM’s
