In a significant move marking India’s Independence Day, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is preparing to launch its Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) carrying the experimental Earth imaging satellite, EOS-8, and a demonstration satellite, SR-0, developed by the Chennai-based start-up Space Rickshaw. This launch, scheduled for Friday morning from Sriharikota, represents a crucial step in ISRO’s efforts to advance its space technology.
The SSLV, a slim and agile rocket, is designed to carry payloads of a few hundred kilograms into low Earth orbit. Weighing just 120 tonnes and standing 34 meters tall, the SSLV aims to revolutionize satellite launches with its quick turnaround time of about one week. The rocket is capable of deploying payloads up to 500 kilograms into an orbit approximately 350-400 kilometers above Earth.
Dr. M Sankaran, Director of the UR Rao Satellite Center (URSC), highlighted that the EOS-8 satellite, weighing 175 kilograms, is equipped with advanced technologies intended to enhance ISRO’s capabilities. Among its notable features is an instrument designed to measure ultraviolet (UV) light exposure, which will provide valuable data for future missions, including the Gaganyaan space mission.
The SSLV’s debut flight in 2022 ended in failure, but its second flight in February 2023 was successful. Following this third flight, ISRO plans to transfer the technology to industry partners for commercial use. Analysts estimate each SSLV launch will cost between ₹30-35 crore, making it an economical option for the burgeoning small satellite market, which is projected to grow from $3.25 billion in 2020 to $13.71 billion by 2030.
Dr. S. Somanath, ISRO Chairman, emphasized that the SSLV is designed for high production scalability, flexible integration, and minimal pre-launch testing. With the potential to meet the global demand for small satellite launches, the SSLV represents a strategic asset for India’s space ambitions. If successful, the technology could be commercialized and significantly impact the global space economy, which is expected to reach $44 billion by 2033.
