Watch: Isro successfully launches SSLV-D3, makes foray into small satellite launch market worth billions of dollars
Sriharikota, August 16, 2024: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched its third small satellite launch vehicle (SSLV) today morning.
This rocket, smaller and lighter than others, is designed to carry satellites weighing up to 500 kilograms into space. The SSLV took off from Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, at 9:17 AM, carrying a satellite called EOS-08, which will help with environmental monitoring and disaster management.
This launch was an important milestone for ISRO, as it represents the successful the completion of the SSLV development project. The SSLV is unique because it’s quicker and cheaper to launch, making it ideal for sending small satellites into space. It took over seven years to build and cost around Rs 170 crore.
The SSLV uses a three-stage rocket powered by solid propellants, with a special system at the end to precisely adjust its speed and direction. This makes it easier to place satellites exactly where they are supposed to be inserted into the orbit.
This was the final SSLV mission by ISRO; future launches will be handled by commercial companies. The SSLV is expected to play a big role in the growing global market for launching small satellites, which is projected to be worth billions of dollars in the coming years.
