ISRO’s Milestone 100th Rocket Launch Mission from Sriharikota

ISRO’s Milestone 100th Rocket Launch Mission from Sriharikota
India’s premier space agency, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), is gearing up for a momentous milestone: the 100th rocket launch from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC), Sriharikota, scheduled for January 29, 2025, at 6:23 AM IST. This historic event will feature the GSLV-F15/NVS-02 mission, marking nearly five decades of advancements in Indian space exploration. Here’s everything you need to know about this groundbreaking mission.
ISRO’s Milestone 100th Rocket Launch Mission from Sriharikota:
What is the GSLV-F15 Mission?
The GSLV-F15 mission will deploy the NVS-02 satellite into a Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO). This mission is particularly significant because it represents the 17th flight of the GSLV (Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle) and the 11th flight using an indigenous cryogenic stage. ISRO’s ability to develop and perfect cryogenic technology over the years underscores its growing prowess in rocket science.
The GSLV-F15 mission is an important addition to ISRO’s navigation satellite program, further solidifying India’s capabilities in space-based navigation.
Why is This Mission Significant?
This mission is historic not only because it’s the 100th rocket launch from Sriharikota but also due to its payload, the NVS-02 satellite, which is part of India’s NavIC (Navigation with Indian Constellation) system. This system is India’s answer to global navigation systems like GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo, providing precise Position, Velocity, and Timing (PVT) services.
With nearly 46 years since the first launch of the Satellite Launch Vehicle (SLV) from Sriharikota in 1979, the 100th launch marks a testament to ISRO’s exponential growth and achievements in space technology.
The NavIC Navigation System: India’s GPS Alternative
The NVS-02 satellite is part of the second-generation NavIC satellites. NavIC (Navigation with Indian Constellation) is India’s regional navigation satellite system, designed to provide precise location services. The system covers India and a region extending 1,500 km beyond the Indian mainland.
Key Features of NavIC and NVS-02 Satellite:
- L1 Frequency Band: The NVS-02 satellite supports the L1 frequency band, enhancing its accuracy and reliability.
- Standard I-2K Bus Platform: The satellite features an advanced bus platform, making it more efficient.
- Position and Timing Accuracy: NavIC offers position accuracy better than 20 meters and timing accuracy better than 40 nanoseconds.
- Power Handling: The satellite has a power capability of 3 kW and a lift-off mass of 2,250 kg.
- C-Band Payload: It includes a ranging payload in the C-band for improved communication and navigation capabilities.
- Orbital Position: The NVS-02 will replace the older IRNSS-1E satellite and will operate at 111.75°E.
Services Offered by NavIC:
- Standard Positioning Service (SPS): Available for civilian users, offering enhanced navigation services.
- Restricted Service (RS): An encrypted service meant for authorized users, such as military applications.
Also read: Apple’s iPhone SE 4 New iPads, and MacBook Air
A Brief History of ISRO’s Rocket Launches from Sriharikota
The first rocket launch from Sriharikota took place on August 10, 1979, with the Satellite Launch Vehicle (SLV). Since then, Sriharikota has served as the backbone of India’s space program. The 100th launch now stands as a testimony to decades of relentless innovation and dedication by Indian scientists.
With this milestone, ISRO joins an elite league of space organizations capable of consistent, reliable satellite launches. Over the years, India’s rockets have diversified into PSLV (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle), GSLV, and the powerful LVM3.
What’s Next for ISRO?
After this landmark mission, ISRO plans to focus on several ambitious projects, including the Gaganyaan mission, India’s first human spaceflight, and further exploration missions to the Moon and Mars. With its growing global reputation, ISRO is also collaborating with international agencies for joint missions and space technology transfers.
FAQs
What is the GSLV-F15 rocket?
The GSLV-F15 is a Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle developed by ISRO. It is equipped with an indigenous cryogenic stage and is capable of placing heavy satellites into Geosynchronous Transfer Orbits.
What is special about the NVS-02 satellite?
The NVS-02 satellite is a next-generation NavIC satellite that supports the L1 frequency band, offers better accuracy, and has enhanced payload capabilities to replace older navigation satellites.
What is the NavIC system?
NavIC (Navigation with Indian Constellation) is India’s regional navigation system designed to provide precise Position, Velocity, and Timing (PVT) services across India and nearby regions.
Why is the 100th launch from Sriharikota important?
This milestone highlights ISRO’s remarkable achievements over 46 years, from launching the modest SLV to the highly sophisticated GSLV and LVM rockets. It reflects India’s growth as a global space power.
What are the services provided by NavIC?
NavIC provides two services:
- Standard Positioning Service (SPS) for civilian use.
- Restricted Service (RS) for government and military applications.
What are ISRO’s future plans?
ISRO is working on the Gaganyaan mission, deep space exploration, advanced communication satellites, and collaborations with international agencies for space research and commercial satellite launches.
The 100th rocket launch from Sriharikota is not just a milestone for ISRO but a moment of pride for India. The GSLV-F15/NVS-02 mission is another step forward in advancing the country’s space capabilities. With its focus on innovation, self-reliance, and international collaborations, ISRO is poised to achieve even greater heights in the years to come.
Mark your calendars for January 29, 2025, and witness history in the making!