The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has been making strides in the space sector, with a particular focus on small satellite launch vehicles. One of their most notable developments is the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV-D1 Micro SAT), which they aim to launch in April 2022. ISRO Chairman, Dr Somanath, announced this recent development, highlighting the SSLV’s potential to cater to the market demand for launching small satellites into earth’s low orbits.
The Characteristics of The SSLV
The SSLV distinguishes itself by being the smallest vehicular launch vehicle, weighing only 110 tonnes. Its integration process is impressively short, taking a mere 72 hours, compared to the 70-day period usually allocated for such tasks.
One of the key elements of the SSLV is its payload capacity. It is capable of carrying satellites weighing up to 500 kg to a low earth orbit. This capability contrasts with the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), which can typically launch satellites within the weight range of 1000 kg.
An additional feature of the SSLV is its three-stage all-solid design. This configuration enables it to launch up to 500 kg of satellite mass into a 500 km Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and 300 kg to Sun Synchronous Orbit (SSO). The SSLV shines in its ability to launch multiple microsatellites concurrently while supporting multiple orbital drop-offs.
The overall benefits of SSLV include low cost, swift turn-around time, flexibility in accommodating multiple satellites, feasible on-demand launches, minimal launch infrastructure requirements, and more.
Development Costs and Implications
The government has sanctioned a total budget of Rs. 169 Crores for the development project, covering the development and qualification of the vehicle systems and flight demonstration through three development flights- SSLV-D1, SSLV-D2 & SSLV-D3.
Dr Somanath, ISRO’s new chairman, is recognized for his contribution to the SSLV’s design and development during his term as the director of the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre in Thiruvananthapuram since 2018. The maiden flight of the SSLV was initially scheduled for launch in July 2019, but due to adversities from Covid-19 and other issues, the plan has been delayed.
The Significance of The SSLV
The production of the SSLV holds substantial potential for fostering a stronger relationship between the space sector and private Indian industries- aligning with a significant target of the space ministry. Indian industry, which maintains a consortium for the production of PSLV, should ideally unite to produce the SSLV once testing is complete.
One of the mandates of ISRO’s newly-created commercial arm, New Space India Limited (NSIL), is to mass-produce and manufacture the SSLV and the more powerful PSLV in cooperation with the private sector in India through technology transfers. The goal is to leverage the research and development carried out by ISRO over the years for commercial purposes, partnering with Indian industries.
Small satellite launches have traditionally depended on ‘piggy-back’ rides with large satellite launches on the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV)—ISRO’s work-horse with a success rate of over 50 launches. Consequently, small satellite launches have relied on ISRO finalizing launch contracts for larger satellites.
Last Modified: February 15, 2024