SSLV-D1 Launch: ISRO launched India’s new launch vehicle Small Satellite Launch Vehicle-Developmental Flight 1 (SSLV-D1) on Sunday morning. ISRO launched the SSLV-D1 from Satish Dhawan Space Center carrying Earth Observation Satellite (EOS-02).
According to ISRO, the 34-metre-long and 120-tonne SSLV-D1 was launched at 9:18 am from the launch center at Sriharikota. ISRO has developed SSLV to place satellites weighing less than 500 kg into low-Earth orbit.
ISRO to launch maiden SSLV carrying an Earth Observation Satellite and AzaadiSAT, which was developed by a team of students.
750 girls from 75 schools built AzadiSAT
The cost of this launch vehicle is only 56 crores. Azadsat satellite will be launched from SSLV. To commemorate the completion of 75 years of independence, 750 girl students from 75 schools of the country have built AzadiSAT. The weight of this satellite is eight kilograms. It has solar panels, selfie cameras. Along with this, long distance communication transponders have also been installed. This satellite will provide services for six months.
According to Space Kidz India, who developed this satellite, 10-10 students from 75 government schools across the country have been selected to develop the satellite. These include girls from class VIII to XII. It is the first of its kind space mission to promote women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics).
Advantages of SSLV
India’s new launch vehicle Small Satellite is going to be cheap and ready in less time. The 34 meter high SSLV is 2 meters in diameter, the 2.8 meter diameter PSLV is 10 meters higher than this. SSLV is a 4 stage rocket, the first 3 stage will use solid fuel. The fourth stage is the Liquid Propulsion based Velocity Trimming Module which will help the satellites on their orbit path.
Why the need for SSLV rockets arose?
SSLV was needed because small satellites had to wait for launch. They had to assemble and send a spacebus with large satellites. Small satellites are coming in large numbers internationally. The market for their launch is increasing. That’s why ISRO made preparations to make this rocket.
