New Delhi: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is all set to achieve another milestone with the upcoming launch of PSLV-C56, a mission of great significance following the Chandrayaan-3 endeavor. Scheduled for Sunday at 6:30 am, the launch will take place from the first launch pad of the Satish Dhawan Space Centre.
The PSLV-C56 mission is configured in its core-alone mode, similar to the previous PSLV-C55 mission. Its primary payload will be the DS-SAR satellite, weighing 360 kg. Developed in collaboration with Singapore’s Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA) and ST Engineering, the satellite is bound for a Near-equatorial Orbit (NEO) with an inclination of 5 degrees and an altitude of 535 km.
The DS-SAR satellite boasts cutting-edge technology, housing a Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) payload crafted by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI). This advanced system equips DS-SAR to offer all-weather day and night coverage, capable of imaging at a remarkable 1m resolution with full polarimetry.
Once operational, the DS-SAR will fulfill the satellite imagery needs of various agencies within the Government of Singapore. Furthermore, ST Engineering has plans to leverage the satellite to provide multi-modal and highly responsive imagery and geospatial services to its commercial clientele.
Accompanying the DS-SAR on the PSLV-C56 mission are six co-passenger satellites, each playing a unique role in advancing space exploration and technology. These satellites include:
- VELOX-AM: A 23 kg technology demonstration microsatellite.
- ARCADE: An experimental satellite.
- SCOOB-II: A 3U nanosatellite carrying a technology demonstrator payload.
- NuLIoN by NuSpace: An advanced 3U nanosatellite enabling seamless IoT connectivity in urban and remote locations.
- Galassia-2: A 3U nanosatellite orbiting at low earth orbit.
- ORB-12 STRIDER: A satellite developed through international collaboration.
ISRO’s impressive track record of 94% success with its PSLV launches further underscores the agency’s expertise in space technology.
Beyond showcasing India’s space prowess, the PSLV-C56 mission highlights the strengthening of international collaborations in space research and exploration. It signifies India’s continued commitment to advancing space science and fostering partnerships in the global space community. As the launch approaches, the world awaits another remarkable achievement in space exploration by ISRO.
