With the support of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), Indian Start-up Qnu Labs aims to demonstrate unlimited distance Satellite Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) based secure communications. QKD is a secure communications method, where the sender and recipient of a message produce a shared secret key and use it to encrypt and decrypt messages. The applications of this technology are primarily in the government and defence sectors, where the security and confidentiality of shared information are of paramount importance.&nbsp;

The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Bangalore-based deep tech startup QNu Labs to develop indigenous Satellite QKD (quantum key distribution) products.&nbsp;

Terrestrial QKD systems have the limitation of the requirement of repeaters every 100-150 km which is a big hindrance in creating a large-scale Quantum Secure Network. With Satellite QKD capability, India holds the potential to become a world leader in creating Quantum Secure Communication Network, said IN-SPACe. It is expected that this&nbsp;collaboration shall ensure India leads the future of global quantum communication networks that will involve a combination of the quantum-satellite constellation, providing intercontinental connectivity.

Dr Prafulla K Jain, Director Programme Management &amp; Authorization, IN-SPACe, Department of Space, said, “QKD is an essential technology development that uses principles of quantum mechanics to ensure security to sensitive information shared among different parties. For a country like India, with the expansion of the space sector and with significant shifts in advanced technologies especially in network and communication domains, it is very crucial to have a robust ecosystem in place so that we have smooth operations without having to compromise any sensitive data. I hope that this partnership with QNu Labs will pave the way for stringent collaborations to strengthen India’s Quantum Secure Communication Network.

With its expertise in the aerospace and communications domain, ISRO&nbsp;will play a pivotal role in helping QNu Labs achieve this milestone by supporting payload designs, telemetry, and other related activities. IN-SPACe will facilitate QNu Labs to achieve the objectives. Earlier, ISRO had&nbsp;successfully demonstrated free-space Quantum Communication over a distance of 300m, using indigenously developed technologies.&nbsp;The demonstration by the space agency had included live videoconferencing using quantum-key-encrypted signals. This is a major milestone achievement for unconditionally secured satellite data communication using quantum technologies.

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With the support of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), Indian Start-up Qnu Labs aims to demonstrate unlimited distance Satellite Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) based secure communications.

With the support of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), Indian Start-up Qnu Labs aims to demonstrate unlimited distance Satellite Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) based secure communications. QKD is a secure communications method, where the sender and recipient of a message produce a shared secret key and use it to encrypt and decrypt messages. The applications of this technology are primarily in the government and defence sectors, where the security and confidentiality of shared information are of paramount importance. The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Bangalore-based deep tech startup QNu Labs to develop indigenous Satellite QKD (quantum key distribution) products. Terrestrial QKD systems have the limitation of the requirement of repeaters every 100-150 km which is a big hindrance in creating a large-scale Quantum Secure Network. With Satellite QKD capability, India holds the potential to become a world leader in creating Quantum Secure Communication Network, said IN-SPACe. It is expected that this collaboration shall ensure India leads the future of global quantum communication networks that will involve a combination of the quantum-satellite constellation, providing intercontinental connectivity. Dr Prafulla K Jain, Director Programme Management & Authorization, IN-SPACe, Department of Space, said, “QKD is an essential technology development that uses principles of quantum mechanics to ensure security to sensitive information shared among different parties. For a country like India, with the expansion of the space sector and with significant shifts in advanced technologies especially in network and communication domains, it is very crucial to have a robust ecosystem in place so that we have smooth operations without having to compromise any sensitive data. I hope that this partnership with QNu Labs will pave the way for stringent collaborations to strengthen India’s Quantum Secure Communication Network. With its expertise in the aerospace and communications domain, ISRO will play a pivotal role in helping QNu Labs achieve this milestone by supporting payload designs, telemetry, and other related activities. IN-SPACe will facilitate QNu Labs to achieve the objectives. Earlier, ISRO had successfully demonstrated free-space Quantum Communication over a distance of 300m, using indigenously developed technologies. The demonstration by the space agency had included live videoconferencing using quantum-key-encrypted signals. This is a major milestone achievement for unconditionally secured satellite data communication using quantum technologies. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Indian start-up partners with ISRO to develop satellite-based QKD secure communication

The Indian space industry witnessed significant growth in recent times. And the year 2022 was indeed a success story as the industry achieved remarkable milestones under the guidance of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).

The Indian space industry witnessed significant growth in recent times. And the year 2022 was indeed a success story as the industry achieved remarkable milestones under the guidance of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). When it comes to the space industry, India will remember 2022 as a year that had a high percentage of successful launches. Besides that, India also saw the biggest commercial launch, leasing launch vehicles to private corporations, and launching rocket and satellite payloads for Indian corporate entities. Several factors have played their parts when it comes to the Indian space industry and its substantial growth. But there's no denying the fact that privatisation of the Indian space sector opened new doors with many opportunities. ALSO READ | 100+ Indian space-sector start-ups have raised nearly $250mn in funding: Industry body As part of changes to boost commercial participation in the space sector, the government launched a new organisation, Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center (IN-SPACe), in June 2020. Through IN-SPACe, an organisation inside the Department of Space, the Indian government allowed private actors to participate in space exploration. The government established NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) to increase the participation of Indian Industries in undertaking high-tech space-related operations. Lt. Gen. AK Bhatt (Retd), who is the director general of the Indian Space Association (ISpA), said that as we look back at the year 2022, the "industry witnessed some major milestones in the growth journey of the private sector with NSIL authorising the space conglomerate formed by Larsen & Toubro (L&T) and HAL an Rs 860-crore contract for the commercial development of next 5 Polar Satellite Launch Vehicles (PSLVs) and the pact of OneWeb with NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) to launch LEO satellites from India and signing the first license contract with DoT for satellite broadband followed by the successful launch of 36 LEO satellites from Sriharikota". He thanked the government for the steps taken to better the industry, and said that "the growth achieved by India's private space industry is the result of the landmark decision taken by our Hon'ble PM Narendra Modi in 2020 to open our space industry to private sector". ALSO READ | UAE's maiden lunar rover 'Rashid' has an Indian connect The global space industry is estimated to be worth $440 billion and is expected to reach over $1 trillion by 2040, according to Morgan Stanley. Such growth will present massive opportunities for organisations across the world. According to the Indian government statistics, India's share in the global space industry is less than three per cent. But according to a joint report by Ernst & Young (EY) and ISpA, the Indian space economy is expected to reach $12.8466 billion by 2025. Lt. Gen. AK Bhatt (Retd) pointed out all the noteworthy achievements that happened in 2022: -The launch of the first Private Launch Vehicle from Skyroot this year has made significant strides in the growth of the private space industry. -Rising Indian space startups like Pixxel launched the third hyperspectral satellite ‘Anand’ for Earth observation applications following the launch of ‘Shakuntala’ earlier this year. -Dhruva Space, a space firm aimed at developing full-stack space engineering solutions, successfully validated its Satellite Orbital Deployer during the PSLV C53 mission and subsequently launched two nanosatellites for amateur communications in PSLV C54 using the P-dot satellite platform. -Digantara, an aerospace company based out in Bengaluru, Karnataka, built the world’s first commercial space weather sensor -Agnikul Cosmos under the aegis of IN-SPACe established India’s first private space vehicle launchpad at Sriharikota. He said that these "strides by the startups and young entrepreneurs will encourage technology development in space for defence applications through 75 Defence Space Challenges", also known as Mission DefSpace which was launched by PM Modi during DefEXPO 2022. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

New era of space exploration: Indian space industry witnessed major milestones in 2022

Over the last five years, the commercial arm of India's space agency has raked in millions in foreign revenue by launching satellites of customers from 19 nations. According to data revealed in India's Upper House of Parliament, the 177 foreign satellites launched in the last 19 years are from&nbsp;Australia, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Finland, France, Israel, Italy, Japan, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Netherlands, Republic of Korea, Singapore, Spain, Switzerland, United Kingdom and the USA.&nbsp;&nbsp;

On a commercial basis, the Indian Space Research Organization has placed orbit satellites of varying sizes using primarily the PSLV launcher. "The foreign exchange revenue generated through the launching of these 177 foreign satellites from January 2018 to November 2022 is approximately 94 million USD and 46 million Euro" read the written reply of Dr Jitendra Singh, Minister of State, Prime Minister's Office.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> launched 177 satellites from 19nations over the last 5yrs using PSLV &amp; 1LVM3(Jan 18-Nov 22) 
 
For this service, the commercial arm of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/isro?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#isro</a> earned $94mn &amp;Euro $46mn (This is despite <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> induced halt) 
 
Once SSLV is ops ready, it could bring in more $$<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Parliament?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Parliament</a> <a href="https://t.co/0K7LQ8CKDW">pic.twitter.com/0K7LQ8CKDW</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1603696794722095106?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2022</a></blockquote>
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While the PSLV continues to be the mainstay of commercial launchers operated by India, the country recently used its heaviest rocket LVM3 or GSLV Mk3 on its maiden commercial mission. Carried out in October 2022, the mission involved orbiting 36 internet communication satellites of the UK-based firm OneWeb. This marked the entry of the LMV3 into the global commercial launch market, which has largely been dominated by a few space agencies or private firms from the US and Europe.&nbsp;&nbsp;

With the LVM3 having matured as a launch vehicle and proven itself by delivering complete successes in all missions to date, the vehicle offers much promise for future commercial opportunities. In February 2023, the LVM3 is to be launched again for orbiting another set of OneWeb satellites. Once the newest rocket, SSLV or India's Small Satellite Launch Vehicle is operational and proven, it can further bolster the prospects for commercial launch services from India.&nbsp;

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Over the last five years, the commercial arm of India's space agency has raked in millions in foreign revenue by launching satellites of customers from 19 nations.

Over the last five years, the commercial arm of India's space agency has raked in millions in foreign revenue by launching satellites of customers from 19 nations. According to data revealed in India's Upper House of Parliament, the 177 foreign satellites launched in the last 19 years are from Australia, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Finland, France, Israel, Italy, Japan, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Netherlands, Republic of Korea, Singapore, Spain, Switzerland, United Kingdom and the USA. On a commercial basis, the Indian Space Research Organization has placed orbit satellites of varying sizes using primarily the PSLV launcher. "The foreign exchange revenue generated through the launching of these 177 foreign satellites from January 2018 to November 2022 is approximately 94 million USD and 46 million Euro" read the written reply of Dr Jitendra Singh, Minister of State, Prime Minister's Office. #India launched 177 satellites from 19nations over the last 5yrs using PSLV & 1LVM3(Jan 18-Nov 22) For this service, the commercial arm of #isro earned $94mn &Euro $46mn (This is despite #COVID19 induced halt) Once SSLV is ops ready, it could bring in more $$#Parliament pic.twitter.com/0K7LQ8CKDW — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) December 16, 2022 × While the PSLV continues to be the mainstay of commercial launchers operated by India, the country recently used its heaviest rocket LVM3 or GSLV Mk3 on its maiden commercial mission. Carried out in October 2022, the mission involved orbiting 36 internet communication satellites of the UK-based firm OneWeb. This marked the entry of the LMV3 into the global commercial launch market, which has largely been dominated by a few space agencies or private firms from the US and Europe. With the LVM3 having matured as a launch vehicle and proven itself by delivering complete successes in all missions to date, the vehicle offers much promise for future commercial opportunities. In February 2023, the LVM3 is to be launched again for orbiting another set of OneWeb satellites. Once the newest rocket, SSLV or India's Small Satellite Launch Vehicle is operational and proven, it can further bolster the prospects for commercial launch services from India.

India: ISRO launched 177 satellites from 19 nations in last 5 years & earned millions

In what can be regarded as a great leap for the Indian space sector, a private firm has inaugurated its own rocket launch pad and mission control centre. This latest development from Chennai-based rocket company Agnikul Cosmos will enable them to launch their own rockets into space. This private facility, also India’s first such, is located within India’s existing and lone spaceport, the Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota.&nbsp;

The new facility has been inaugurated on Monday, by the Chairman, of ISRO, Dr S. Somanath, senior officials from ISRO and the Agnikul team. It has been designed by Agnikul and executed with support from IN-SPACe (the government entity which supports and promotes private space firms in India). This facility comprises two sections - Agnikul Launchpad (ALP) and Agnikul Mission Control Centre(AMCC).&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/isro-conducts-200th-launch-of-rh-200-sounding-rocket-heres-all-you-need-to-know-536716">Also read |&nbsp;ISRO conducts 200th consecutive launch of 'RH-200' sounding rocket; here's all you need to know&nbsp;</a>

According to Agnikul, all critical systems connecting these two sections - which are 4 km away from each other are redundant to ensure 100 per cent&nbsp;operationality during the countdown. The Launchpad is built specifically keeping in mind the ability to support liquid-stage controlled launches, while also addressing the need for ISRO’s range operations team to monitor key flight safety parameters during launches. Additionally, it has the ability to, as necessary share data and other critical information with ISRO’s mission control centre.&nbsp;

Agnikul’s first launch will be a controlled &amp; guided mission having a vertical launch and&nbsp;will happen from this launchpad. The mission would be a technology demonstrator that will mirror Agnikul’s orbital launch but at a reduced scale. The company's&nbsp;Agnibaan rocket is a highly customisable, 2-stage launch vehicle, capable of taking up to 100 kg payload to orbits around 700 km high (low Earth orbits) and&nbsp;enables plug-and-play configuration. Agnilet is the world's first single-piece 3D printed engine fully designed and manufactured in India and was successfully test-fired in early 2021 &amp; became the first company in the country to test its engines at ISRO.

Speaking at the inauguration event,&nbsp;Secretary, Dept. of Space and Chairman, ISRO, Dr S Somanath&nbsp;said "The first exclusive launch pad for a private launch vehicle has come up at Satish Dhawan Space Center (SDSC). Now India can travel to space from one more space platform. Thanks to Agnikul."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/isro-tests-parachute-system-thats-meant-to-land-indian-astronauts-safely-on-water-536002">Also read |&nbsp;ISRO tests parachute system that's meant to land Indian astronauts safely on water</a>

Commenting about their new facility,&nbsp;Srinath Ravichandran, Co-founder &amp; CEO, Agnikul&nbsp;said, "The ability to launch from our own launchpad while still working with ISRO’s launch operations teams is a privilege that we have been granted by ISRO &amp; IN-SPACe and I am deeply grateful to them for the same. It is dream come true for all of us at Agnikul to launch our vehicles from a facility we have designed and built ourselves."

Over the last 60 years, the most sophisticated aspects of India’s space programme (such as building and launching rockets, satellites, and operating support facilities) have been the monopoly of India’s Government-run space agency. However, the space sector reforms rolled out by the Indian Government in 2020, permitted private companies to delve into this niche sector and carry out business activities.&nbsp;

In line with this, India has witnessed a multiplication of start-ups in the space sector, recently India’s first privately built rocket was launched into the upper atmosphere, and satellites built by Indian firms were launched on India’s workhorse PSLV rocket (built and operated by the Government-run space agency).&nbsp;

The announcement from Agnikul takes this further, as it would be the fifth operational rocket Launchpad in India. ISRO operates two main launchpads in Sriharikota meant for its large orbital rockets and has a Sounding rocket complex for its smaller &amp; sub-orbital rockets. ISRO’s lead facility in Kerala’s Thiruvananthapuram also has a Launchpad for small-sounding (sub-orbital) rockets.&nbsp;In addition to this, the Indian Government is building another spaceport for small orbital rockets, closer to the tip of the Indian peninsula, at Kulasekarapattinam in Tamil Nadu.

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In what can be regarded as a great leap for the Indian space sector, a private firm has inaugurated its own rocket launch pad and mission control centre. This latest development from Chennai-based rocket company Agnikul Cosmos will enable them to launch their own rockets into space.

In what can be regarded as a great leap for the Indian space sector, a private firm has inaugurated its own rocket launch pad and mission control centre. This latest development from Chennai-based rocket company Agnikul Cosmos will enable them to launch their own rockets into space. This private facility, also India’s first such, is located within India’s existing and lone spaceport, the Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota. The new facility has been inaugurated on Monday, by the Chairman, of ISRO, Dr S. Somanath, senior officials from ISRO and the Agnikul team. It has been designed by Agnikul and executed with support from IN-SPACe (the government entity which supports and promotes private space firms in India). This facility comprises two sections - Agnikul Launchpad (ALP) and Agnikul Mission Control Centre(AMCC). Also read | ISRO conducts 200th consecutive launch of 'RH-200' sounding rocket; here's all you need to know According to Agnikul, all critical systems connecting these two sections - which are 4 km away from each other are redundant to ensure 100 per cent operationality during the countdown. The Launchpad is built specifically keeping in mind the ability to support liquid-stage controlled launches, while also addressing the need for ISRO’s range operations team to monitor key flight safety parameters during launches. Additionally, it has the ability to, as necessary share data and other critical information with ISRO’s mission control centre. Agnikul’s first launch will be a controlled & guided mission having a vertical launch and will happen from this launchpad. The mission would be a technology demonstrator that will mirror Agnikul’s orbital launch but at a reduced scale. The company's Agnibaan rocket is a highly customisable, 2-stage launch vehicle, capable of taking up to 100 kg payload to orbits around 700 km high (low Earth orbits) and enables plug-and-play configuration. Agnilet is the world's first single-piece 3D printed engine fully designed and manufactured in India and was successfully test-fired in early 2021 & became the first company in the country to test its engines at ISRO. Speaking at the inauguration event, Secretary, Dept. of Space and Chairman, ISRO, Dr S Somanath said "The first exclusive launch pad for a private launch vehicle has come up at Satish Dhawan Space Center (SDSC). Now India can travel to space from one more space platform. Thanks to Agnikul." Also read | ISRO tests parachute system that's meant to land Indian astronauts safely on water Commenting about their new facility, Srinath Ravichandran, Co-founder & CEO, Agnikul said, "The ability to launch from our own launchpad while still working with ISRO’s launch operations teams is a privilege that we have been granted by ISRO & IN-SPACe and I am deeply grateful to them for the same. It is dream come true for all of us at Agnikul to launch our vehicles from a facility we have designed and built ourselves." Over the last 60 years, the most sophisticated aspects of India’s space programme (such as building and launching rockets, satellites, and operating support facilities) have been the monopoly of India’s Government-run space agency. However, the space sector reforms rolled out by the Indian Government in 2020, permitted private companies to delve into this niche sector and carry out business activities. In line with this, India has witnessed a multiplication of start-ups in the space sector, recently India’s first privately built rocket was launched into the upper atmosphere, and satellites built by Indian firms were launched on India’s workhorse PSLV rocket (built and operated by the Government-run space agency). The announcement from Agnikul takes this further, as it would be the fifth operational rocket Launchpad in India. ISRO operates two main launchpads in Sriharikota meant for its large orbital rockets and has a Sounding rocket complex for its smaller & sub-orbital rockets. ISRO’s lead facility in Kerala’s Thiruvananthapuram also has a Launchpad for small-sounding (sub-orbital) rockets. In addition to this, the Indian Government is building another spaceport for small orbital rockets, closer to the tip of the Indian peninsula, at Kulasekarapattinam in Tamil Nadu. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India gets its first private rocket launchpad and mission control centre

The 56th launch of India's PSLV or the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle rocket is said to take place in a short while from now. The launch is significant as it will showcase India's gestures towards space diplomacy. It will also provide an opportunity to Indian startups to have their satellites placed into the orbit.

India: ISRO to launch PSLV on its 56th mission; rocket to carry nine satellites

Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on Saturday successfully launched nine satellites aboard its workhorse Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle-C54 (PSLV) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, located in the south-eastern state of Andhra Pradesh.

Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on Saturday successfully launched nine satellites aboard its workhorse Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle-C54 (PSLV) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, located in the south-eastern state of Andhra Pradesh. This was the 56th PSLV flight of ISRO and the last one for the year. The 44.4-metre PSLV rocket blasted off the first launch pad with a lift-off mass of 321 tonnes at 11:56 AM IST (0626 GMT) for the two-hour journey. The countdown to the launch had begun on Friday. Out of the nine satellites, eight are nanosatellites. The Earth Observation Satellite-6 (EOS-06) also dubbed the Oceansat-3 is the primary satellite. The EOS-06 weighs 1,117 kg and was built at the UR Rao Satellite Centre, ISRO. 17.7 minutes after the launch, EOS-06 was injected into a 742.7 km orbit. "PSLV-C54/EOS-06 Mission: EOS-06 spacecraft separation is successful. The spacecraft's health is normal. The mission is continuing.." informed ISRO. PSLV-C54/EOS-06 Mission: EOS-06 spacecraft separation is successful. The spacecraft's health is normal. The mission is continuing ... — ISRO (@isro) November 26, 2022 × Afterwards, the rocket is expected to change its orbit to 516 km sun-synchronous polar orbit to place the rest of the satellites. The change in orbit will be made possible due to the Orbit Change Thrusters (OCTs). The change in orbits during a flight makes it one of the historic ISRO-PSLV missions. One of the satellites to be placed includes INS-2B which is a diplomatic nanosatellite for Bhutan. Two thybolt satellites made by Dhruva Space are also onboard the rocket and will be placed in their intended orbits in the next hour or so. The remaining customer payloads are Anand and four satellites of Astrocast. WATCH | ISRO Rocket Launch: Rocket successfully orbited 36 satellites of UK-based oneweb × The launch of the satellites aboard PSLV comes nearly a week after the entry of the private sector into the space industry. Under 'Mission Prarambh', Vikram-S, a small-lift launch vehicle, named in honour of Vikram Sarabhai, the pioneer of India's space programme, was launched into orbit by Skyroot Aerospace, a private space company. Read more: Vikram-S: India's first private rocket blasts off successfully, everything about 'Prarambh Mission' Earlier, ISRO controlled the creation, design, and launch of space missions in India, making rockets a public sector enterprise. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

ISRO successfully launches its PSLV mission with nine satellites; Oceansat-3 placed in orbit

ISRO has largely been focusing on launching towering rockets like the PSLV (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle), GSLV (Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle) and the SSLV (Small Satellite Launch Vehicle). But on Wednesday noon, ISRO's lead facility Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) launched its 200th consecutive 'RH-200' Rohini Sounding rocket.&nbsp;While this is a routine launch, what makes it special is the fact that ISRO's journey in rocketry began with sounding rockets.&nbsp;

Sounding rockets are small, low-cost, solid-fuelled rockets meant for experimental purposes, meteorology, and atmospheric studies. They are used to probe the earth's atmosphere or to test newly developed sub-components, before actually flying them on larger rockets or on satellites.

These rockets take far lesser time to assemble and launch, given that they use solid fuel, which is less sophisticated when compared to liquid fuels. Typically, sounding rockets are launched at sub-orbit (lesser than 100 kilometres) in altitude and are not spacefaring rockets. However, there are larger sounding rockets that are also capable of reaching the low earth orbit (550kms altitude)

November 21, 1963, is widely regarded as the beginning of the Indian Space programme, as the maiden launch of the sounding rocket took place from the then Thumba Equatorial Rocket Launching Station (now a part of the larger VSSC campus).

Back then, the US-made 'Nike Apache' rocket was the first to be launched from Indian soil. Thereafter, two-stage rockets imported from Russia (M-100) and France (Centaure) were also launched.&nbsp;

While M-100 could carry a payload of 70 kg to an altitude of 85 km, the Centaure was capable of reaching 150 km with a payload of approximately 30 kg. In 1970, the Hydrometeorological Services of the USSR signed an agreement with ISRO to launch their meteorological sounding rockets, M-100, every week, from TERLS. This programme&nbsp;continued uninterruptedly till 1993.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

In 1967, ISRO started launching a series of indigenous sounding rockets named 'Rohini' from TERLS. RH-75, with a diameter of 75mm, was the first truly Indian sounding rocket, which was followed by RH-100 and RH-125 rockets. The sounding rocket programme was indeed the bedrock on which the edifice of launch vehicle technology was built. The experience gained was of immense value in the mastering of the solid propellant technology and allied systems of the launch vehicles. Several scientific missions with national and international participation have been conducted using the Rohini sounding rockets.

At present, India operates three sounding rocket variants —RH-200, RH-300-Mk-II and RH-560-Mk-III. These cover a payload range of 8 to 100 kg and can fly to an altitude of 75-550kms.&nbsp;

Wednesday's launch marks the 200th&nbsp;consecutive flight of the indigenous RH-200 'Rohini' sounding rocket. The event at Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, will take place in the presence of former Indian president Ram Nath Kovind, Chairman, ISRO, Dr S Somanath and Director, VSSC, Dr. S. Unnikrishnan Nair and officials from the space agency.

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ISRO has largely been focusing on launching towering rockets like the PSLV (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle), GSLV (Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle) and the SSLV (Small Satellite Launch Vehicle).

ISRO has largely been focusing on launching towering rockets like the PSLV (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle), GSLV (Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle) and the SSLV (Small Satellite Launch Vehicle). But on Wednesday noon, ISRO's lead facility Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) launched its 200th consecutive 'RH-200' Rohini Sounding rocket. While this is a routine launch, what makes it special is the fact that ISRO's journey in rocketry began with sounding rockets. Sounding rockets are small, low-cost, solid-fuelled rockets meant for experimental purposes, meteorology, and atmospheric studies. They are used to probe the earth's atmosphere or to test newly developed sub-components, before actually flying them on larger rockets or on satellites. These rockets take far lesser time to assemble and launch, given that they use solid fuel, which is less sophisticated when compared to liquid fuels. Typically, sounding rockets are launched at sub-orbit (lesser than 100 kilometres) in altitude and are not spacefaring rockets. However, there are larger sounding rockets that are also capable of reaching the low earth orbit (550kms altitude) November 21, 1963, is widely regarded as the beginning of the Indian Space programme, as the maiden launch of the sounding rocket took place from the then Thumba Equatorial Rocket Launching Station (now a part of the larger VSSC campus). Back then, the US-made 'Nike Apache' rocket was the first to be launched from Indian soil. Thereafter, two-stage rockets imported from Russia (M-100) and France (Centaure) were also launched. While M-100 could carry a payload of 70 kg to an altitude of 85 km, the Centaure was capable of reaching 150 km with a payload of approximately 30 kg. In 1970, the Hydrometeorological Services of the USSR signed an agreement with ISRO to launch their meteorological sounding rockets, M-100, every week, from TERLS. This programme continued uninterruptedly till 1993. In 1967, ISRO started launching a series of indigenous sounding rockets named 'Rohini' from TERLS. RH-75, with a diameter of 75mm, was the first truly Indian sounding rocket, which was followed by RH-100 and RH-125 rockets. The sounding rocket programme was indeed the bedrock on which the edifice of launch vehicle technology was built. The experience gained was of immense value in the mastering of the solid propellant technology and allied systems of the launch vehicles. Several scientific missions with national and international participation have been conducted using the Rohini sounding rockets. At present, India operates three sounding rocket variants —RH-200, RH-300-Mk-II and RH-560-Mk-III. These cover a payload range of 8 to 100 kg and can fly to an altitude of 75-550kms. Wednesday's launch marks the 200th consecutive flight of the indigenous RH-200 'Rohini' sounding rocket. The event at Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, will take place in the presence of former Indian president Ram Nath Kovind, Chairman, ISRO, Dr S Somanath and Director, VSSC, Dr. S. Unnikrishnan Nair and officials from the space agency. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

ISRO conducts 200th consecutive launch of 'RH-200' sounding rocket; here's all you need to know 

The Indian Space Agency (ISRO) has been carrying out developmental work towards its maiden Human Spaceflight mission 'Gaganyaan'. On one hand, while the&nbsp;work is progressing towards human-rating the country's largest rocket LVM3, to be able to carry astronauts;&nbsp;efforts are underway to ensure that the astronauts land safely on the water. In order to fulfil the latter objective, ISRO recently conducted a parachute-based test&nbsp;meant to be used for Mission 'Gaganyaan'.

Conducted by ISRO's lead facility, Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, the test was carried out in Uttar Pradesh in Northern India, in close coordination with the Indian Air Force, Indian Army and Defence Research Development Organization(DRDO). Known as the Integrated Main Parachute Airdrop Test, or IMAT, the crew module deceleration system was tested at the Babina Field Fire Range (BFFR) in the Jhansi district of Uttar Pradesh.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-firm-successfully-test-fires-3d-printed-rocket-engine-at-isro-facility-532582">Also read |&nbsp;Indian firm successfully test-fires 3D-printed rocket engine at ISRO facility</a>

Objects in low Earth orbit travel at speeds over 27,000kmph and this applies to the Gaganyaan crew module carrying Indian astronauts as well. On re-entering the denser parts of the earth's atmosphere, the capsule will be encountering temperatures of several thousand degrees centigrade and will slow down considerably. Even then, the rapidly falling object would have to be further slowed down from hundreds of kilometres per hour to around 10 kilometres per hour, a safe landing speed for splashing down at sea.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;ISRO increases carrying capacity of LVM3 rocket by 450kg

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It is for this important purpose of slowing down the rapidly falling capsule, that the Parachutes are being tested. According to ISRO, the Gaganyaan Crew Module comprises a total of ten parachutes."In flight, the parachute sequence starts with deployment of 2 Nos. of Apex cover separation parachutes (protection cover for the Crew Module Parachute compartment) followed by 2 Nos. of Drogue parachute deployment to stabilise &amp; bring down the velocity. Upon Drogue parachute release, 3 Nos. of Pilot chute will be used to extract 3 Nos. of Main parachute individually, to reduce the speed of the Crew module to safe levels during its landing. Two of the three main chutes are sufficient to land the astronauts on earth, and the third is redundant" ISRO said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/isro-delivers-rocket-self-destruct-mechanism-for-launch-vehicle-built-by-indian-start-up-533396">Also read |&nbsp;ISRO delivers rocket self-destruct mechanism for launch vehicle built by Indian start-up</a>

The recent test was a simulation, wherein the main parachute fails to open and how the landings were carried out under such a scenario. ISRO said,&nbsp;a 5-tonne dummy mass, equivalent to the Crew module mass, was taken to an altitude of 2.5 kilometres and dropped using the Indian Air force’s IL-76 heavy-lift transporter aircraft. Two small pyro-based mortar-deployed pilot parachutes then pulled the main parachutes. The fully inflated Main parachutes reduced the payload speed to a safe landing speed as the entire sequence lasted about 2-3 minutes and the payload mass landed softly on the ground.

The design and development of the parachute-based deceleration system for the crew module is a joint venture between the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO).&nbsp;

SpaceX's operational dragon capsule which carries astronauts and cargo to space and returns them back to earth via water landing also uses a similar multi-parachute system to slow down the human-carrying capsule and ensure its safe landing.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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The Indian Space Agency (ISRO) has been carrying out developmental work towards its maiden Human Spaceflight mission 'Gaganyaan'. On one hand, while the work is progressing towards human-rating the country's largest rocket LVM3, to be able to carry astronauts; efforts are underway to ensure that the astronauts land safely on the water.

The Indian Space Agency (ISRO) has been carrying out developmental work towards its maiden Human Spaceflight mission 'Gaganyaan'. On one hand, while the work is progressing towards human-rating the country's largest rocket LVM3, to be able to carry astronauts; efforts are underway to ensure that the astronauts land safely on the water. In order to fulfil the latter objective, ISRO recently conducted a parachute-based test meant to be used for Mission 'Gaganyaan'. Conducted by ISRO's lead facility, Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, the test was carried out in Uttar Pradesh in Northern India, in close coordination with the Indian Air Force, Indian Army and Defence Research Development Organization(DRDO). Known as the Integrated Main Parachute Airdrop Test, or IMAT, the crew module deceleration system was tested at the Babina Field Fire Range (BFFR) in the Jhansi district of Uttar Pradesh. Also read | Indian firm successfully test-fires 3D-printed rocket engine at ISRO facility Objects in low Earth orbit travel at speeds over 27,000kmph and this applies to the Gaganyaan crew module carrying Indian astronauts as well. On re-entering the denser parts of the earth's atmosphere, the capsule will be encountering temperatures of several thousand degrees centigrade and will slow down considerably. Even then, the rapidly falling object would have to be further slowed down from hundreds of kilometres per hour to around 10 kilometres per hour, a safe landing speed for splashing down at sea. Watch | ISRO increases carrying capacity of LVM3 rocket by 450kg It is for this important purpose of slowing down the rapidly falling capsule, that the Parachutes are being tested. According to ISRO, the Gaganyaan Crew Module comprises a total of ten parachutes."In flight, the parachute sequence starts with deployment of 2 Nos. of Apex cover separation parachutes (protection cover for the Crew Module Parachute compartment) followed by 2 Nos. of Drogue parachute deployment to stabilise & bring down the velocity. Upon Drogue parachute release, 3 Nos. of Pilot chute will be used to extract 3 Nos. of Main parachute individually, to reduce the speed of the Crew module to safe levels during its landing. Two of the three main chutes are sufficient to land the astronauts on earth, and the third is redundant" ISRO said. Also read | ISRO delivers rocket self-destruct mechanism for launch vehicle built by Indian start-up The recent test was a simulation, wherein the main parachute fails to open and how the landings were carried out under such a scenario. ISRO said, a 5-tonne dummy mass, equivalent to the Crew module mass, was taken to an altitude of 2.5 kilometres and dropped using the Indian Air force’s IL-76 heavy-lift transporter aircraft. Two small pyro-based mortar-deployed pilot parachutes then pulled the main parachutes. The fully inflated Main parachutes reduced the payload speed to a safe landing speed as the entire sequence lasted about 2-3 minutes and the payload mass landed softly on the ground. The design and development of the parachute-based deceleration system for the crew module is a joint venture between the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO). SpaceX's operational dragon capsule which carries astronauts and cargo to space and returns them back to earth via water landing also uses a similar multi-parachute system to slow down the human-carrying capsule and ensure its safe landing. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

ISRO tests parachute system that's meant to land Indian astronauts safely on water

India's first privately developed rocket has&nbsp;been&nbsp;sent into orbit by Skyroot Aerospace on Friday, marking the nation's first private space launch. The Vikram-S launch vehicle is intended to carry out the Prarambh mission as a demonstration flight in the second week of November.&nbsp;The mission will be significant since the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) formerly controlled the creation, design, and launch of space missions in India, making rockets a public sector enterprise.&nbsp;

"Mission Prarambh is successfully accomplished. Congratulations" ISRO announced on Twitter.&nbsp;The rocket launch, according to Union Minister Jitendra Singh, who was in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh to witness the historic launch, marked a turning moment for Indian startups.

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India's first ever private rocket Vikram-S, named after Vikram Sarabhai, launched from Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh. The rocket has been built by "Skyroot Aerospace". <a href="https://t.co/DJ9oN0LPfH">pic.twitter.com/DJ9oN0LPfH</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1593484880872017920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 18, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Why the name 'Prarambh'?</h2>

Prarambh, which means "the beginning" and denotes a new era for the private space industry, is the name given to the mission by the Hyderabad-based rocket start-up.

With this first mission, Skyroot Aerospace will launch a rocket into orbit for the first time as a commercial space enterprise in India, ushering in a new era for the space industry, which was recently opened up to allow for private sector participation, the company stated.

<blockquote>
“We could build and get our Vikram-S rocket mission-ready in such a short time only because of the invaluable support we received from ISRO and IN-SPACe, and the technology talent that we inherently possess," said Pawan Kumar Chandana, CEO and Co-Founder.
</blockquote>

The name "Vikram" is given to Skyroot Aerospace's launch vehicles in honour of Dr Vikram Sarabhai, the eminent scientist who founded the Indian <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/artemis-1-launched-as-nasa-ushers-into-a-new-era-of-lunar-exploration-534646">Space Programme</a>.&nbsp;

<h2>All about Vikram-S</h2>

In honour of Vikram Sarabhai, the pioneer of India's space programme, a small-lift launch vehicle known as the Vikram S was created.

The chief operating officer of Skyroot, Naga Bharath Daka, described the Vikram-S rocket as a single-stage sub-orbital launch vehicle that would be able to transport three client payloads and assist test and verifying most of the technology in the Vikram family of space launch vehicles.

Three rockets, dubbed Vikram I, II, and III, are part of the "Vikram" series. Broadband internet, GPS, and Internet of Things (IoT) from orbit and imagery of the planet will all be supported by these rockets.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/space-tourism-a-dream-too-distant-to-achieve-534334">Space Tourism: A dream too distant to achieve?</a>

According to Skyroot, "The leading technology architecture of Vikram vehicles offers unique capabilities like multi-orbit insertion, interplanetary missions; while providing customised, dedicated and rideshare options covering a wide spectrum of small satellite customer needs.”

According to Skyroot, the Vikram series is engineered to be manufactured and launched in less than 72 hours and has the "lowest cost in the payload sector."

These rockets are capable of launching satellites into sun-synchronous polar orbits and low Earth orbits that may weigh up to 815 kg each (SSPOs).

<h2>The highlight of the mission</h2>

Three customer satellites from Skyroot Aerospace will be launched aboard Vikram S in a sub-orbital flight as part of the Prarambh project. Three client payloads will be carried by Vikram S during this mission, which will also assist in the testing and validation of technologies for the Vikram family of space launch vehicles.

The 2.5-kilogramme payload "Fun-Sat," which was created by kids from India, the US, Singapore, and Indonesia, will also be launched on board Vikram S by Spacekidz, an aerospace firm located in Chennai.

<h2>Significance of the mission</h2>

Suborbital spaceflight is often conducted at a lower altitude than orbital spaceflight, frequently at a height of around 100 kilometres above the surface of the Earth, and it is believed that they are essential for completing space mission experiments before true commercial trips take place.

Three separate Vikram rocket versions are currently being developed by Skyroot. According to sources, the Vikram-I, Vikram-II, and Vikram-III can launch payloads weighing up to 480 kilogrammes, 595 kilogrammes, and 815 kilogrammes into a 500-kilometre low-inclination orbit, respectively.

To send commercial satellites into orbit, the business is creating cutting-edge space launch vehicles. It wants to lower entry barriers for low-cost satellite launch services as well as space travel by expanding its mission of making spaceflights accessible, dependable, and common for everyone.

(With inputs from agencies)

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasas-james-webb-telescope-shares-never-seen-before-image-of-birth-of-a-star-534996">NASA’s James Webb Telescope shares never-before-seen image of birth of a star</a>

&nbsp;

India's first privately developed rocket has been sent into orbit by Skyroot Aerospace on Friday, marking the nation's first private space launch. The Vikram-S launch vehicle is intended to carry out the Prarambh mission as a demonstration flight in the second week of November.

India's first privately developed rocket has been sent into orbit by Skyroot Aerospace on Friday, marking the nation's first private space launch. The Vikram-S launch vehicle is intended to carry out the Prarambh mission as a demonstration flight in the second week of November. The mission will be significant since the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) formerly controlled the creation, design, and launch of space missions in India, making rockets a public sector enterprise. "Mission Prarambh is successfully accomplished. Congratulations" ISRO announced on Twitter. The rocket launch, according to Union Minister Jitendra Singh, who was in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh to witness the historic launch, marked a turning moment for Indian startups. India's first ever private rocket Vikram-S, named after Vikram Sarabhai, launched from Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh. The rocket has been built by "Skyroot Aerospace". pic.twitter.com/DJ9oN0LPfH — ANI (@ANI) November 18, 2022 × Why the name 'Prarambh'? Prarambh, which means "the beginning" and denotes a new era for the private space industry, is the name given to the mission by the Hyderabad-based rocket start-up. With this first mission, Skyroot Aerospace will launch a rocket into orbit for the first time as a commercial space enterprise in India, ushering in a new era for the space industry, which was recently opened up to allow for private sector participation, the company stated. “We could build and get our Vikram-S rocket mission-ready in such a short time only because of the invaluable support we received from ISRO and IN-SPACe, and the technology talent that we inherently possess," said Pawan Kumar Chandana, CEO and Co-Founder. The name "Vikram" is given to Skyroot Aerospace's launch vehicles in honour of Dr Vikram Sarabhai, the eminent scientist who founded the Indian Space Programme. All about Vikram-S In honour of Vikram Sarabhai, the pioneer of India's space programme, a small-lift launch vehicle known as the Vikram S was created. The chief operating officer of Skyroot, Naga Bharath Daka, described the Vikram-S rocket as a single-stage sub-orbital launch vehicle that would be able to transport three client payloads and assist test and verifying most of the technology in the Vikram family of space launch vehicles. Three rockets, dubbed Vikram I, II, and III, are part of the "Vikram" series. Broadband internet, GPS, and Internet of Things (IoT) from orbit and imagery of the planet will all be supported by these rockets. Also read | Space Tourism: A dream too distant to achieve? According to Skyroot, "The leading technology architecture of Vikram vehicles offers unique capabilities like multi-orbit insertion, interplanetary missions; while providing customised, dedicated and rideshare options covering a wide spectrum of small satellite customer needs.” According to Skyroot, the Vikram series is engineered to be manufactured and launched in less than 72 hours and has the "lowest cost in the payload sector." These rockets are capable of launching satellites into sun-synchronous polar orbits and low Earth orbits that may weigh up to 815 kg each (SSPOs). The highlight of the mission Three customer satellites from Skyroot Aerospace will be launched aboard Vikram S in a sub-orbital flight as part of the Prarambh project. Three client payloads will be carried by Vikram S during this mission, which will also assist in the testing and validation of technologies for the Vikram family of space launch vehicles. The 2.5-kilogramme payload "Fun-Sat," which was created by kids from India, the US, Singapore, and Indonesia, will also be launched on board Vikram S by Spacekidz, an aerospace firm located in Chennai. Significance of the mission Suborbital spaceflight is often conducted at a lower altitude than orbital spaceflight, frequently at a height of around 100 kilometres above the surface of the Earth, and it is believed that they are essential for completing space mission experiments before true commercial trips take place. Three separate Vikram rocket versions are currently being developed by Skyroot. According to sources, the Vikram-I, Vikram-II, and Vikram-III can launch payloads weighing up to 480 kilogrammes, 595 kilogrammes, and 815 kilogrammes into a 500-kilometre low-inclination orbit, respectively. To send commercial satellites into orbit, the business is creating cutting-edge space launch vehicles. It wants to lower entry barriers for low-cost satellite launch services as well as space travel by expanding its mission of making spaceflights accessible, dependable, and common for everyone. (With inputs from agencies) Also read | NASA’s James Webb Telescope shares never-before-seen image of birth of a star

Vikram-S: India's first private rocket blasts off successfully, everything about 'Prarambh Mission'

The Indian Space Research Organization has launched its first privately built rocket. The rocket named Vikram-S lifted off at 11:30 am local time from the Southern Indian.

WION Dispatch: India's space agency launches Vikram-S

India is making some big leaps in the space sector and this is of course something that is expected to come in the next forthcoming year as well.

LVM3 Rocket: Indian Space Agency carries out engine test, being readied to lift more payload

The Indian space agency handed over the Flight Termination System (FTS) used in its own rockets, to Indian start-up Agnikul Cosmos. The Chennai-based launch vehicle company is in the process of building their own rocket 'Agnibaan'. The Flight Termination System (FTS), colloquially known as "kill-switch" is a crucial piece of technology that can be used to remotely self-destruct the rocket when it faces a serious anomaly or it deviates from the planned flight path, thus endangering life and property.&nbsp;

According to ISRO, the&nbsp;handing-over event marked the culmination of multiple rounds of interactions about interfacing, handling and using these systems on Agnikul's launch vehicle 'Agnibaan', in the presence of Director, VSSC and IN-SPACe teams.

Srinath Ravichandran, CEO and Co-Founder of Agnikul Cosmos told WION that the 'Agnibaan' vehicle is meant to be launched from ISRO's spaceport in Sriharikota and that the FTS is necessary to ensure a safe and controlled flight. He added that their rocket FTS had to be interfaced with ISRO's safety system. Queried about their company's maiden launch, he said that they were targeting it by 2022-end.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-forces-enter-kherson-city-following-complete-russian-military-evacuation-533385" hreflang="en">Ukrainian forces enter Kherson city following Russian military evacuation</a>

ISRO handing over this FTS to Agnikul Cosmos marks the first time that a system being used in ISRO's rockets, is being supplied to support a private firm that is building rockets in India. The FTS package is meant to be used for Agnikul's&nbsp;fully controlled sub-orbital launcher, that is expected to launch from India's spaceport SDSC SHAR, Sriharikota.

Generally, anything lofted above the 'Karman Line' (100kms above sea level) is considered a foray into space and those placed below the Karman Line are known as sub-orbital flights for upper-atmospheric experiments. Before making an orbital-class rocket, it is common for start-ups to build smaller rockets and fly them to the upper atmosphere and validate the launch vehicle technologies, flight hardware and sub-systems.&nbsp;

Recently, Agnikul's&nbsp;3-D printed rocket engine was test fired successfully at a facility of Indian Space Research Organization. The Engine 'Agnilet' was test fired at the Vertical Test Facility at ISRO's Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC). This successful test marked a milestone in the private launch vehicle company's journey to building their spacefaring rocket 'Agnibaan'.&nbsp;

According to the company, this test was conducted with the support of IN-SPACe and ISRO and was meant to validate the technological possibility that rocket engines can be made as a single piece of hardware. Agnikul&nbsp;had recently announced that&nbsp;the Government Of India has awarded them the patent for the design and manufacturing of their single-piece rocket engines. 'Agnilet', one such single-piece engine, is the world's first single-piece 3D printed rocket engine&nbsp;fully designed and manufactured in India, it was successfully test-fired at IIT Madras in 2021.&nbsp;

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The Indian space agency handed over the Flight Termination System (FTS) used in its own rockets, to Indian start-up Agnikul Cosmos. The Chennai-based launch vehicle company is in the process of building their own rocket 'Agnibaan'.

The Indian space agency handed over the Flight Termination System (FTS) used in its own rockets, to Indian start-up Agnikul Cosmos. The Chennai-based launch vehicle company is in the process of building their own rocket 'Agnibaan'. The Flight Termination System (FTS), colloquially known as "kill-switch" is a crucial piece of technology that can be used to remotely self-destruct the rocket when it faces a serious anomaly or it deviates from the planned flight path, thus endangering life and property. According to ISRO, the handing-over event marked the culmination of multiple rounds of interactions about interfacing, handling and using these systems on Agnikul's launch vehicle 'Agnibaan', in the presence of Director, VSSC and IN-SPACe teams. Srinath Ravichandran, CEO and Co-Founder of Agnikul Cosmos told WION that the 'Agnibaan' vehicle is meant to be launched from ISRO's spaceport in Sriharikota and that the FTS is necessary to ensure a safe and controlled flight. He added that their rocket FTS had to be interfaced with ISRO's safety system. Queried about their company's maiden launch, he said that they were targeting it by 2022-end. Also read | Ukrainian forces enter Kherson city following Russian military evacuation ISRO handing over this FTS to Agnikul Cosmos marks the first time that a system being used in ISRO's rockets, is being supplied to support a private firm that is building rockets in India. The FTS package is meant to be used for Agnikul's fully controlled sub-orbital launcher, that is expected to launch from India's spaceport SDSC SHAR, Sriharikota. Generally, anything lofted above the 'Karman Line' (100kms above sea level) is considered a foray into space and those placed below the Karman Line are known as sub-orbital flights for upper-atmospheric experiments. Before making an orbital-class rocket, it is common for start-ups to build smaller rockets and fly them to the upper atmosphere and validate the launch vehicle technologies, flight hardware and sub-systems. Recently, Agnikul's 3-D printed rocket engine was test fired successfully at a facility of Indian Space Research Organization. The Engine 'Agnilet' was test fired at the Vertical Test Facility at ISRO's Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC). This successful test marked a milestone in the private launch vehicle company's journey to building their spacefaring rocket 'Agnibaan'. According to the company, this test was conducted with the support of IN-SPACe and ISRO and was meant to validate the technological possibility that rocket engines can be made as a single piece of hardware. Agnikul had recently announced that the Government Of India has awarded them the patent for the design and manufacturing of their single-piece rocket engines. 'Agnilet', one such single-piece engine, is the world's first single-piece 3D printed rocket engine fully designed and manufactured in India, it was successfully test-fired at IIT Madras in 2021.

ISRO delivers rocket self-destruct mechanism for launch vehicle built by Indian start-up

The latest test of India's existing cryogenic engine 'CE-20' adds more muscle to India's biggest and heaviest rocket, the LVM3 (earlier known as GSLV Mk3). The test has proven that the launch vehicle's payload capacity or ability to carry more cargo to space can be increased. &nbsp;

On request, an ISRO Official elaborated to WION about the major takeaways from the rocket engine test carried out by the Indian space agency on November 9.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The indigenously designed and developed LVM3 rocket has had a design load of carrying 4 tonnes to Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) and almost 10 tonnes to Low Earth Orbit (LEO). However, the rocket has so far, in five launches to date, not flown with a full payload. &nbsp;

As the payload (satellite) is made for a certain purpose/mission, it would have a particular mass and it need not be as much as the entire carrying capacity of the rocket.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ISRO?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ISRO</a> announces successful test of the existing <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/indian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#indian</a> CE20 Cryogenic <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/rocket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#rocket</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/engine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#engine</a> at higher-thrust of 21.8tons..This means, India's heaviest launcher LVM3 can lift more payload 
In a 1st, new Thrust Control Valve,3Dprinted parts used<a href="https://twitter.com/isro?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@isro</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Video?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Video</a> of recent CE20 test <a href="https://twitter.com/isro?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@isro</a> <a href="https://t.co/bqJeKn1Zpg">pic.twitter.com/bqJeKn1Zpg</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1590596000334630913?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 10, 2022</a></blockquote>
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In terms of the heaviest payloads carried by the LVM3 rocket, it had lifted 3.85 tonnes to GTO during Chandrayaan-2, India's second Lunar mission, and 5.8 tonnes to LEO, for the recent October-end commercial launch for 'OneWeb'. This means that the capability to lift more payload exists, but the vehicle has not yet had an opportunity to do so.&nbsp;&nbsp;

According to the ISRO Official, the latest test has further increased the design load of the LVM3 rocket. In layman's terms, the test has given ISRO the confidence to carry more payloads on LVM3 than the current limits. &nbsp;

"After this test, the design load of LVM3 to GTO is around 4.5 tonnes (up from 4 tons) and the design load to GTO is around 10.65 tonnes,” the ISRO official explained.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In terms of the engine being tested at a higher thrust, the official stated that it was good increase —-from the earlier 19 tonnes to 21.8 tonnes. The higher thrust is obtained by increasing the quantity of fuel being stored in the tanks and also by increasing the rate of flow of fuel to the engine. &nbsp;

"The propellant loading(fuel) was earlier 28 tonnes and now we are using 32 tonnes of fuel" the official added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In order to increase the payload carrying capacity of the LVM3 rocket, ISRO is testing the CE-20 engine at higher thrusts and also working on developing a new Semi-cryogenic engine 'SC-120', which is meant to replace the existing L110 stage on the LVM3 rocket.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The&nbsp;GSLV&nbsp;Mk3&nbsp;rocket or LVM3&nbsp;is a three-stage heavy lift launch vehicle developed by ISRO. The vehicle has two solid 'S200' strap-on motors (burns solid fuel), 'L110' core-stage liquid booster (burns a combination of liquid fuels) and a 'C25' cryogenic upper stage (burns liquid hydrogen with liquid oxygen).&nbsp;

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The latest test of India's existing cryogenic engine 'CE-20' adds more muscle to India's biggest and heaviest rocket, the LVM3 (earlier known as GSLV Mk3). The test has proven that the launch vehicle's payload capacity or ability to carry more cargo to space can be increased.

The latest test of India's existing cryogenic engine 'CE-20' adds more muscle to India's biggest and heaviest rocket, the LVM3 (earlier known as GSLV Mk3). The test has proven that the launch vehicle's payload capacity or ability to carry more cargo to space can be increased. On request, an ISRO Official elaborated to WION about the major takeaways from the rocket engine test carried out by the Indian space agency on November 9. The indigenously designed and developed LVM3 rocket has had a design load of carrying 4 tonnes to Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) and almost 10 tonnes to Low Earth Orbit (LEO). However, the rocket has so far, in five launches to date, not flown with a full payload. As the payload (satellite) is made for a certain purpose/mission, it would have a particular mass and it need not be as much as the entire carrying capacity of the rocket. #ISRO announces successful test of the existing #indian CE20 Cryogenic #rocket #engine at higher-thrust of 21.8tons..This means, India's heaviest launcher LVM3 can lift more payload In a 1st, new Thrust Control Valve,3Dprinted parts used@isro #Video of recent CE20 test @isro pic.twitter.com/bqJeKn1Zpg — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) November 10, 2022 × In terms of the heaviest payloads carried by the LVM3 rocket, it had lifted 3.85 tonnes to GTO during Chandrayaan-2, India's second Lunar mission, and 5.8 tonnes to LEO, for the recent October-end commercial launch for 'OneWeb'. This means that the capability to lift more payload exists, but the vehicle has not yet had an opportunity to do so. According to the ISRO Official, the latest test has further increased the design load of the LVM3 rocket. In layman's terms, the test has given ISRO the confidence to carry more payloads on LVM3 than the current limits. "After this test, the design load of LVM3 to GTO is around 4.5 tonnes (up from 4 tons) and the design load to GTO is around 10.65 tonnes,” the ISRO official explained. In terms of the engine being tested at a higher thrust, the official stated that it was good increase —-from the earlier 19 tonnes to 21.8 tonnes. The higher thrust is obtained by increasing the quantity of fuel being stored in the tanks and also by increasing the rate of flow of fuel to the engine. "The propellant loading(fuel) was earlier 28 tonnes and now we are using 32 tonnes of fuel" the official added. In order to increase the payload carrying capacity of the LVM3 rocket, ISRO is testing the CE-20 engine at higher thrusts and also working on developing a new Semi-cryogenic engine 'SC-120', which is meant to replace the existing L110 stage on the LVM3 rocket. The GSLV Mk3 rocket or LVM3 is a three-stage heavy lift launch vehicle developed by ISRO. The vehicle has two solid 'S200' strap-on motors (burns solid fuel), 'L110' core-stage liquid booster (burns a combination of liquid fuels) and a 'C25' cryogenic upper stage (burns liquid hydrogen with liquid oxygen). WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

ISRO’s LVM3 rocket gains more lifting power; here’s how much it can carry

The Indian space agency said that its RISAT-2 satellite made uncontrolled atmospheric re-entry earlier this week, after performing its tasks in space for nearly 13 years.&nbsp;

The re-entry occurred at the predicted impact point in the Indian Ocean near Jakarta on October 30, 2022, 00:06 UTC with an uncertainty of ±10 minutes, ISRO said in a statement. RISAT-2 is a radar imaging satellite with multiple applications and was placed in an orbit where it was 400km above earth at its closest approach and 550km above the earth at its farthest approach.&nbsp;

According to the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), RISAT-2 Satellite carried 30kg fuel for an initial design life of 4 years. However, with proper maintenance of orbit, mission planning by the spacecraft operations team in ISRO and economical usage of fuel, RISAT-2 provided very useful payload data for 13 years.&nbsp;

The agency added that RISAT-2 had no fuel left on re-entry and that contaminations or explosion by fuel were not expected. Based on studies, it was also said that pieces generated due to aero-thermal fragmentation (as a result of the high temperatures, friction and speed of re-entry), would not have impacted on Earth.&nbsp;

"Indian System for Safe and Sustainable Space Operations Management (IS4OM) facility in ISTRAC/ISRO had been monitoring the re-entry for the last one month with analysis carried out by VSSC and ISTRAC teams through its in-house developed analysis software and tracking the object utilizing Multi Object Tracking Radar (MOTR) at SDSC, Sriharikota. MOTR tracked RISAT-2 regularly and the data were used for further analysis and Orbit determination. The orbital data available from USSPACECOM were regularly used to predict the re-entry time and impact" ISRO said.&nbsp;

ISRO added that RISAT-2 is a clear example of ISRO’s capability to carry out spacecraft orbital operations in an efficient and optimal way. As RISAT-2 re-entered within 13.5 years, it complied with all necessary international mitigation guidelines for Space Debris, showing ISRO’s commitment towards long term sustainability of Outer Space as well, said the agency.&nbsp;

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The Indian space agency said that its RISAT-2 satellite made uncontrolled atmospheric re-entry earlier this week, after performing its tasks in space for nearly 13 years.

The Indian space agency said that its RISAT-2 satellite made uncontrolled atmospheric re-entry earlier this week, after performing its tasks in space for nearly 13 years. The re-entry occurred at the predicted impact point in the Indian Ocean near Jakarta on October 30, 2022, 00:06 UTC with an uncertainty of ±10 minutes, ISRO said in a statement. RISAT-2 is a radar imaging satellite with multiple applications and was placed in an orbit where it was 400km above earth at its closest approach and 550km above the earth at its farthest approach. According to the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), RISAT-2 Satellite carried 30kg fuel for an initial design life of 4 years. However, with proper maintenance of orbit, mission planning by the spacecraft operations team in ISRO and economical usage of fuel, RISAT-2 provided very useful payload data for 13 years. The agency added that RISAT-2 had no fuel left on re-entry and that contaminations or explosion by fuel were not expected. Based on studies, it was also said that pieces generated due to aero-thermal fragmentation (as a result of the high temperatures, friction and speed of re-entry), would not have impacted on Earth. "Indian System for Safe and Sustainable Space Operations Management (IS4OM) facility in ISTRAC/ISRO had been monitoring the re-entry for the last one month with analysis carried out by VSSC and ISTRAC teams through its in-house developed analysis software and tracking the object utilizing Multi Object Tracking Radar (MOTR) at SDSC, Sriharikota. MOTR tracked RISAT-2 regularly and the data were used for further analysis and Orbit determination. The orbital data available from USSPACECOM were regularly used to predict the re-entry time and impact" ISRO said. ISRO added that RISAT-2 is a clear example of ISRO’s capability to carry out spacecraft orbital operations in an efficient and optimal way. As RISAT-2 re-entered within 13.5 years, it complied with all necessary international mitigation guidelines for Space Debris, showing ISRO’s commitment towards long term sustainability of Outer Space as well, said the agency. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

ISRO's RISAT-2 satellite bows out after 13 years of service; makes atmospheric re-entry

For those who observe very closely, no two rocket launches (months apart or years apart) take place at the exact same time. Each lift-off has its own specific, unique timing, down to the minute.

For those who observe very closely, no two rocket launches (months apart or years apart) take place at the exact same time. Each lift-off has its own specific, unique timing, down to the minute. Some happen at dusk, some at dawn, some during the midnight hour etc. For example, the recent launch of the LVM3, India's largest rocket carrying 36 satellites from UK-based company OneWeb, took place at 00:07hrs IST on October 23. There is an entire branch of space science known as 'Orbital Mechanics' that is used to determine what is known as a 'Launch window', a period of time within which a certain launch must happen. Launch windows depend on a plethora of factors - place of launch, type of orbit intended, final destination, whether it is headed for another planet, number of satellites being carried, the time of the year, the position of the relevant heavenly bodies and also minimal risk of space debris. In the case of OneWeb Launch, 14 which was carried out from India's Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, the launch was originally scheduled for Friday,22nd October night. However, due to some factors, the launch was carried out on Sunday 00:07am IST. OneWeb Officials told WION that they had determined the time of launch, in close coordination with ISRO, as the former were the paying customers for the launch. Interestingly, launch day 23rd October also happened to be the birthday of the Chairman of OneWeb, but that was just an extremely rare coincidence, with no relevance to the launch. “We used a sat dispenser meant for Soyuz #rocket & it could carry only 36 satellites. Getting a larger dispenser for LVM3, to hold more satellites would’ve taken lot of time, hence @oneweb went with 36” @M_Ladovaz told me, when I asked about putting only 6ton payload on #LVM3M2 pic.twitter.com/EQTEBJvkNc — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) October 25, 2022 × It must be noted that the Indian LVM3 rocket can carry anywhere between eight to 10 tons of payload to Low Earth orbit. However, OneWeb only put 36 satellites (weighing 6tons in total) on board the rocket. Queried about why the company did not make full use of the payload capacity and derive maximum value out of the launch, Massimiliano Ladovaz, CTO, OneWeb told WION that it was a limitation posed by the satellite dispenser that they used. Ladovaz explained to WION that the satellite dispenser was originally meant for only 36 satellites and was supposed to fly on a Soyuz rocket. Owing to circumstances, when OneWeb decided to launch their satellites on ISRO's LVM3, they knew that they had to go with 36 satellites on the existing dispenser or spend precious time for getting a new dispenser. "We would have liked to and could have done more(launched more satellites on this LVM3 rocket), however getting a new dispenser to accommodate more satellites would have taken more time" he elaborated. With Low Earth orbit getting increasingly populated with constellations of communication satellites from various firms, astronomers have raised concerns. The issues are primarily to do with light getting reflected from the satellites' solar panels, satellite trails appearing in astronomical images and adversely affected the field of view of astronomers. When queried about what OneWeb was doing to mitigate this issue, Ladovaz told WION that the company was working with astronomers to measure the exact impact and prepare to reduce it. He also said that the OneWeb satellites were placed in an orbit that was too high to be visible. However, he did acknowledge that they could be seen in some conditions by astronomers. He added that the company was working on reducing this adverse impact by darkening some reflective surfaces of their Next-gen constellation of satellites. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained: Why ISRO launched LVM3 at 12:07am & why only 36 satellites on biggest rocket?

It was the day of many firsts for the Indian Space Research Organisation. The agency launched its heaviest rocket so far a total of 36 Broadband Communications satellites were on board. The rocket is a launch vehicle Mark III.

India: ISRO Rocket Launch | 36 satellites on board lifts off

"Next launch of LVM3 will be in the beginning of January or February. We also have to do the SSLV mission which is the repeat of what we did last time after making the corrections. We are now getting ready for the launch of PSLV possibly this November end. Then we have to the GSLV launch and go for Aditya L1 launch in the end of this year," says S Somanath, ISRO Chairman.

Next launch of LVM3 will be in Jan : ISRO Chairman Somanath talks to WION about 5 upcoming launches

The Indian Space Research Organization launched its heaviest rocket. So far a total of 36 Broadband communication satellites are onboard.

ISRO Rocket Launch: Mission grants entry of LVM3 into commercial lounge service area

ISRO Rocket Launch | Oneweb: Joint venture between Bharti Enterprises and UK government

India’s GSLV-MK3 maiden commercial flight, heaviest and largest spacefaring rocket

ISRO Rocket Launch: Rocket successfully orbited 36 satellites of UK-based oneweb

India's Ocean Research Vessel 'Sagar Nidhi' will be maintaining a close watch on the flight path and post-launch mission status of the country's heaviest rocket, the GSLV Mk3. Shortly after launch from India's Spaceport on the Eastern Seaboard, the rocket will be zooming towards the south pole and overflying the Indian Ocean.

That's exactly where ORV Sagar Nidhi, a research ship operated by India's National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) with onboard radars and antennas has been stationed. The 104-metre-long vessel is capable of carrying out geo-scientific, meteorological and oceanographic research.&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
As the GSLVMk3 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/rocket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#rocket</a> zooms into the skies, flies over the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Indian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Indian</a> Ocean region (far beyond reach of ground-based tracking antennas)... <a href="https://twitter.com/MoesNiot?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MoesNiot</a> ORV Sagar Nidhi will be in the IOR to track flight path, progress &amp; keep <a href="https://twitter.com/isro?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@isro</a> in loop on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/mission?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#mission</a> status <a href="https://twitter.com/OneWeb?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@OneWeb</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ISRO?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ISRO</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OneWeb?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OneWeb</a> <a href="https://t.co/hWFiOiHesL">https://t.co/hWFiOiHesL</a> <a href="https://t.co/DoJ4Scpfuu">pic.twitter.com/DoJ4Scpfuu</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1583789475863228417?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 22, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Post-launch, a rocket is constantly tracked by stations (antennas) on ground and this process is carried out from multiple ground stations spanning the flight path of the rocket. However, there are times when the rocket is not 'visible' to ground stations. Such situations occur when the rocket flies over the high seas, where tracking stations are unavailable.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/24-hr-countdown-for-gslv-mk3-first-ever-commercial-flight-527424">24-hour countdown for GSLV Mk3's first-ever commercial flight to begin Saturday</a>&nbsp;

Such gaps in the tracking process of the rocket's flight path and mission status are filled in by sea-borne assets such as ORV Sagar Nidhi. The vessel has been stationed at a pre-determined location in the Indian Ocean region, far south of the tip of India's Southern peninsula. As the rocket overflies in that large region, the sensors and tracking equipment on board the ship can provide real-time updates to the Indian Space agency, about the manner in which the mission is progressing.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The 24-hour countdown for the first-ever commercial launch of India's heaviest rocket, the GSLV Mk3 commenced at 00:07hrs on Saturday. The launch will be carried out from India's spaceport Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC), Sriharikota on Sunday, 23rd October at 12:07am IST.&nbsp;

The launch is meant to place 36 satellites of UK-based OneWeb, in Low Earth Orbit, around 601kms above the earth's surface.&nbsp;

During the countdown, the rocket's systems and satellite health will be monitored. Liquid and cryogenic fuels that power the second and third stage of the rocket respectively, would also be filled during the final hours of the countdown.&nbsp;

OneWeb is a global communication network powered from space, enabling connectivity for governments, businesses and communities. The firm is implementing a constellation of Low Earth orbit satellites, which will be arranged in 12 orbital planes with 49 satellites in each plane, this constellation will have a total o 648 satellites. India's Bharti Enterprises serves as a major shareholder and investor in OneWeb. This is OneWeb's 14th launch overall and first-ever launch with the Indian Space Research Organization(ISRO) and its commercial arm NSIL.&nbsp;

The duration of the mission, from lift-off till separation of the first satellite will be a little over 19 minutes. This launch will mark the entry of the Indian GSLV Mk3 rocket into the global medium-lift commercial launch services arena, which has largely been a duopoly of American and European firms.&nbsp;

The GSLV Mk3 rocket is a three-stage heavy-lift launch vehicle developed by ISRO. The vehicle has two solid strap-on motors(burns solid fuel), a core-stage liquid booster(burns a combination of liquid fuels) and a cryogenic upper stage(burns liquid hydrogen with liquid oxygen). GSLV Mk III is designed to carry a four-tonne class of satellites into Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) or about 10 tons to Low Earth Orbit (LEO), which is about twice the capability of its predecessor, the GSLV Mk II.&nbsp;

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India's Ocean Research Vessel 'Sagar Nidhi' will be maintaining a close watch on the flight path and post-launch mission status of the country's heaviest rocket, the GSLV Mk3.

India's Ocean Research Vessel 'Sagar Nidhi' will be maintaining a close watch on the flight path and post-launch mission status of the country's heaviest rocket, the GSLV Mk3. Shortly after launch from India's Spaceport on the Eastern Seaboard, the rocket will be zooming towards the south pole and overflying the Indian Ocean. That's exactly where ORV Sagar Nidhi, a research ship operated by India's National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) with onboard radars and antennas has been stationed. The 104-metre-long vessel is capable of carrying out geo-scientific, meteorological and oceanographic research. As the GSLVMk3 #rocket zooms into the skies, flies over the #Indian Ocean region (far beyond reach of ground-based tracking antennas)... @MoesNiot ORV Sagar Nidhi will be in the IOR to track flight path, progress & keep @isro in loop on #mission status @OneWeb #ISRO #OneWeb https://t.co/hWFiOiHesL pic.twitter.com/DoJ4Scpfuu — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) October 22, 2022 × Post-launch, a rocket is constantly tracked by stations (antennas) on ground and this process is carried out from multiple ground stations spanning the flight path of the rocket. However, there are times when the rocket is not 'visible' to ground stations. Such situations occur when the rocket flies over the high seas, where tracking stations are unavailable. ALSO READ | 24-hour countdown for GSLV Mk3's first-ever commercial flight to begin Saturday Such gaps in the tracking process of the rocket's flight path and mission status are filled in by sea-borne assets such as ORV Sagar Nidhi. The vessel has been stationed at a pre-determined location in the Indian Ocean region, far south of the tip of India's Southern peninsula. As the rocket overflies in that large region, the sensors and tracking equipment on board the ship can provide real-time updates to the Indian Space agency, about the manner in which the mission is progressing. The 24-hour countdown for the first-ever commercial launch of India's heaviest rocket, the GSLV Mk3 commenced at 00:07hrs on Saturday. The launch will be carried out from India's spaceport Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC), Sriharikota on Sunday, 23rd October at 12:07am IST. The launch is meant to place 36 satellites of UK-based OneWeb, in Low Earth Orbit, around 601kms above the earth's surface. During the countdown, the rocket's systems and satellite health will be monitored. Liquid and cryogenic fuels that power the second and third stage of the rocket respectively, would also be filled during the final hours of the countdown. OneWeb is a global communication network powered from space, enabling connectivity for governments, businesses and communities. The firm is implementing a constellation of Low Earth orbit satellites, which will be arranged in 12 orbital planes with 49 satellites in each plane, this constellation will have a total o 648 satellites. India's Bharti Enterprises serves as a major shareholder and investor in OneWeb. This is OneWeb's 14th launch overall and first-ever launch with the Indian Space Research Organization(ISRO) and its commercial arm NSIL. The duration of the mission, from lift-off till separation of the first satellite will be a little over 19 minutes. This launch will mark the entry of the Indian GSLV Mk3 rocket into the global medium-lift commercial launch services arena, which has largely been a duopoly of American and European firms. The GSLV Mk3 rocket is a three-stage heavy-lift launch vehicle developed by ISRO. The vehicle has two solid strap-on motors(burns solid fuel), a core-stage liquid booster(burns a combination of liquid fuels) and a cryogenic upper stage(burns liquid hydrogen with liquid oxygen). GSLV Mk III is designed to carry a four-tonne class of satellites into Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) or about 10 tons to Low Earth Orbit (LEO), which is about twice the capability of its predecessor, the GSLV Mk II. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

As ISRO GSLV Mk3 rocket zooms towards South Pole, Indian ship 'Sagar Nidhi' will keep track of it

"The PSLV (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle) rocket has done more than 50 launches to date and another 30 PSLV launches are in the offing. We are very clear with regards the utility/purpose of the next 30 launches. Beyond that, what?", the Chairman of India's Space Agency, Dr. S. Somanath told his colleagues and leading engineers from across domains in India. The senior space scientist and technocrat was pointing out the massive, revolutionary changes in rocket technology and how India must adapt to them.

Delivering the keynote address at the 'Engineers Conclave-2022', Somanath shared his future perspective for the Indian space programme and industry. "PSLV has to retire - today, tomorrow or a decade later. PSLV is 1980s-era technology and can't be used for missions in 2030s. It is not correct." he said. He also added that the same applies to the GSLV rocket. However, he mentioned that the GLSV Mk3 rocket is an exception, as it is a relatively new vehicle.

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Chairman <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ISRO?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ISRO</a> "PSLV is 80s tech, can't be used in 2030s..Must think of retiring old vehicles(as with SLV3, ASLV). PSLV&amp; GSLV are vintage design,not re-usable,can't reduce cost,mfg takes time,uses toxic fuels(Mk3 is exception, is a recent one)<a href="https://twitter.com/isro?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@isro</a> working on next-gen rockets" <a href="https://t.co/Eg548kBSB6">pic.twitter.com/Eg548kBSB6</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1580516484966600704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Elaborating on the reasons for 'retiring' old rockets, Somanath said that their cost could not be reduced further, their design was more than three decades old, it uses multiple propulsion technologies, is powered by toxic and carcinogenic fuels, is built using traditional manufacturing techniques.&nbsp;

"If we look at launch vehicle evolution, technology induction at appropriate time is essential. Otherwise, with the changing times when everybody (in the international launch market) is able to bring down cost of access to space, traditional technology (of ISRO) will not survive. We can say it (PSLV) is a national asset and continue to operate at a high cost, but I won't strongly recommend it," he reasoned.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-pm-shehbaz-sharif-says-want-talks-with-india-but-remains-silent-on-terrorism-525119">Pak PM Sharif says 'want talks with India', but remains silent on terrorism</a>

As a solution to this, Somanath said that India has to look at building a cost-effective launcher for the future. "We are working on a new-generation launch vehicle of India, which should be better in terms of cost, re-usability, manufacturing process and possible to produce faster. Currently the teams are working on it," he said without specifying progress and timelines. It is intended that such a next-gen rocket will be powered by highly-efficient liquid fuel combinations such as methane and liquid oxygen, kerosene and liquid oxygen.

"The PSLV (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle) rocket has done more than 50 launches to date and another 30 PSLV launches are in the offing. We are very clear with regards the utility/purpose of the next 30 launches.

"The PSLV (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle) rocket has done more than 50 launches to date and another 30 PSLV launches are in the offing. We are very clear with regards the utility/purpose of the next 30 launches. Beyond that, what?", the Chairman of India's Space Agency, Dr. S. Somanath told his colleagues and leading engineers from across domains in India. The senior space scientist and technocrat was pointing out the massive, revolutionary changes in rocket technology and how India must adapt to them. Delivering the keynote address at the 'Engineers Conclave-2022', Somanath shared his future perspective for the Indian space programme and industry. "PSLV has to retire - today, tomorrow or a decade later. PSLV is 1980s-era technology and can't be used for missions in 2030s. It is not correct." he said. He also added that the same applies to the GSLV rocket. However, he mentioned that the GLSV Mk3 rocket is an exception, as it is a relatively new vehicle. Chairman #ISRO "PSLV is 80s tech, can't be used in 2030s..Must think of retiring old vehicles(as with SLV3, ASLV). PSLV& GSLV are vintage design,not re-usable,can't reduce cost,mfg takes time,uses toxic fuels(Mk3 is exception, is a recent one)@isro working on next-gen rockets" pic.twitter.com/Eg548kBSB6 — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) October 13, 2022 × Elaborating on the reasons for 'retiring' old rockets, Somanath said that their cost could not be reduced further, their design was more than three decades old, it uses multiple propulsion technologies, is powered by toxic and carcinogenic fuels, is built using traditional manufacturing techniques. "If we look at launch vehicle evolution, technology induction at appropriate time is essential. Otherwise, with the changing times when everybody (in the international launch market) is able to bring down cost of access to space, traditional technology (of ISRO) will not survive. We can say it (PSLV) is a national asset and continue to operate at a high cost, but I won't strongly recommend it," he reasoned. Also read | Pak PM Sharif says 'want talks with India', but remains silent on terrorism As a solution to this, Somanath said that India has to look at building a cost-effective launcher for the future. "We are working on a new-generation launch vehicle of India, which should be better in terms of cost, re-usability, manufacturing process and possible to produce faster. Currently the teams are working on it," he said without specifying progress and timelines. It is intended that such a next-gen rocket will be powered by highly-efficient liquid fuel combinations such as methane and liquid oxygen, kerosene and liquid oxygen.

ISRO must think beyond PSLV & GSLV; teams are working on next-gen rockets, says chairman

Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) informed on Thursday that it will launch 36 satellites of United Kingdom’s global communications network OneWeb onboard its heaviest launcher the Launch Vehicle Mark III (LVM3) this month.

ISRO plans to launch 36 OneWeb satellites this month

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