The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is in the process of creating a Next-Gen Launch Vehicle (NGLV). This new vehicle is designed to supersede the currently operational systems like the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV). Launch vehicles are essential to space exploration since they’re employed to transport spacecraft to space. India has two operational launchers at its disposal: The PSLV and the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV).
The NextGen Launch Vehicle: An Overview
The NextGen Launch Vehicle is ISRO’s latest project. The NGLV is expected to be a cost-efficient, three-stage-to-orbit, reusable heavy-lift vehicle with a payload capability of up to ten tonnes to Geostationary Transfer Orbit (GTO). Its robust design makes it an ideal candidate for bulk manufacturing, system modularity, and minimal turnaround time.
Features of NextGen Launch Vehicle
One key feature of the NGLV is its semi-cryogenic propulsion, which uses refined kerosene as fuel, with liquid oxygen (LOX) as an oxidiser for the booster stages.
Potential Uses of NextGen Launch Vehicle
The NGLV’s potential applications include launching communication satellites, facilitating deep space missions, advancing future human spaceflight, and undertaking cargo missions.
A Look Back: Other Launch Vehicles Developed by ISRO
ISRO’s first foray into rocket development resulted in the creation of the Satellite Launch Vehicle (SLV). Then followed by the Augmented Satellite Launch Vehicle (ASLV). Both SLV and ASLV were capable of carrying small satellites, weighing up to 150 kg, to lower earth orbits. The ASLV operated until PSLV took over in the early 1990s.
More on PSLV and GSLV
The first PSLV launch was in 1994, and it quickly became ISRO’s main rocket. The modern PSLV is significantly enhanced and more potent than the versions used in the 90s. It marks a milestone for being the first Indian launch vehicle to come equipped with liquid stages. With 52 successful flights out of 54, the PSLV is ISRO’s most reliable rocket to date.
On the other hand, GSLV is a much more powerful rocket, meant to transport heavier satellites deeper into space. So far, it has completed 18 missions with only four ending in failure. It can carry up to 10,000 kg of satellites to lower the earth’s orbits.
The Significance of GSLV Mk II and Mk-III
The introduction of GSLV Mk II and Mk-III versions makes ISRO totally self-reliant in terms of launching its satellites. Notably, the indigenously developed Cryogenic Upper Stage (CUS) forms the third stage of GSLV Mk II. Before these developments, ISRO had to rely on the European Arianne launch vehicle for placing its heavier satellites into space.
PSLV versus GSLV: Their Roles and Contributions
PSLV is recognized as India’s third-generation launch vehicle. It mainly serves to deliver satellites in Low Earth Orbits, especially the Indian Remote Sensing series of satellites. In contrast, GSLV is designed primarily to deploy the Indian National Satellite System (INSAT), a multipurpose geostationary satellite launched by ISRO to meet the requirements of telecommunications, broadcasting, meteorology, and search and rescue operations.