The Indian Space and Research Organisation (ISRO) is reaching new heights in the field of space exploration. This article delves into a recent achievement by ISRO: the successful launch of the GSAT-29 communication satellite, made possible by the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mark III (GSLV Mk III). The launch not only exemplifies ISRO’s growing competence in the global space industry but also sets a precedent for future missions.
Successful Launch of GSAT-29
Advanced engineering and meticulous planning led to the triumphant launch of ISRO’s heaviest satellite, GSAT-29. The GSLV Mk III, known as India’s most powerful launch vehicle, placed the satellite in Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) through three orbit-raising maneuvers. Eventually, the GSAT-29 will move to its permanent position in the Geostationary Orbit. With a predicted mission lifespan of 10 years, the GSAT-29 weighs a substantial 3,423 kg. It is a multi-band, multi-beam communication satellite created to test several new technologies. The payloads include a Geo High-Resolution Camera and an Optical Communication Payload.
The Significance of GSAT-29
The successful launch of GSAT-29 marks another significant milestone in India’s space journey. The multiband, multi-beam communication satellite offers high-speed internet connectivity in remote areas, primarily targeting Jammu & Kashmir and the North-Eastern regions of India. Its high-resolution imaging capability through the Geo-High Resolution Camera will aid in surveillance over the Indian Ocean. The optical communication payload ensures data transmission at high speeds via an optical communication link.
Future Endeavours of ISRO
| Future Missions | Launch Vehicle |
|---|---|
| Chandrayaan-2 | GSLV Mk III |
| Gaganyaan Missions | GSLV Mk III |
Introduction to Different Types of Orbits
Spacecraft can operate in various types of orbits. The two primary categories are the Polar Synchronous and Geosynchronous orbits.
Polar Orbit offers a unique advantage: it allows satellites to monitor virtually every part of the Earth as our planet rotates underneath them. These satellites see extensive use in monitoring crops, measuring atmospheric temperatures, ensuring global security, and assessing ozone concentrations in the stratosphere.
Geosynchronous satellites, on the other hand, match the rotation of the Earth, maintaining a fixed position relative to the planet’s surface. This quality makes these satellites particularly useful for communication purposes. A special kind of geosynchronous orbit is called the Geostationary Orbit, which requires the satellite to maintain position above the equator.
Another essential term in this context is the Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO). To reach geostationary or geosynchronous earth orbits, a spacecraft is first launched into a GTO, from where it uses its engines to move into their final orbit.
The Journey Ahead
The successful launch of GSAT-29 signifies the end of the experimental phase for GSLV Mk III and marks its operational status. With the GSLV Mk III now fully functional, ISRO is progressing towards achieving self-reliance in launching heavier satellites. The upcoming missions Chandrayaan-2 and Gaganyaan are also set to be launched via the GSLV Mk III. As ISRO continues to push its boundaries, we can expect more exciting contributions to the field of global space exploration in the future.
