On Friday, ISRO achieved a significant milestone by successfully launching the Earth Observation Satellite (EOS-08) aboard its third developmental flight, SSLV-D3, from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre. This mission not only demonstrated the reliability of the SSLV but also marked a significant step towards the operational phase of the SSLV program, further enhancing India’s space capabilities.
In a major boost to India’s space program, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched the Earth Observation Satellite (EOS-08) aboard its Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV-D3) on Friday. The SSLV-D3’s third developmental flight also carried the passenger satellite SR-0 DEMOSAT, both of which were placed into their intended orbits precisely as planned.
ISRO Chairman S Somanath, speaking at the Mission Control Centre at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, confirmed the mission’s success, stating, “The SSLV-D3 with EOS-08 satellite has been successfully accomplished. The rocket has placed the spacecraft in a very precise orbit, and there are no deviations in the injection of satellites.” He praised the mission’s parameters, which indicated a flawless launch, adding that the satellite deployments were executed perfectly after the necessary maneuvers.
This achievement marks the completion of the SSLV’s developmental phase, with plans to transfer SSLV technologies to industries soon. Somanath emphasized the significance of this development, noting, “It is 100 percent successful, and the satellite has been placed into its intended orbit. The solar panels have already been deployed, and further activities in the VTM stage will be completed in due course.”
Mission Director S S Vinod highlighted the importance of this milestone, stating, “Today we have achieved a major milestone in the journey of SSLV. The last and final developmental flight of SSLV-D3 has been successfully accomplished, and with that, we are moving into the operational phase.” He also acknowledged the efforts of the team, expressing gratitude to the management led by Chairman Somanath for their trust and confidence in the new team, which was able to achieve the targeted launches of D1, D2, and D3 within a short timeframe.
The successful launch of SSLV-D3 not only signifies the culmination of the SSLV’s developmental program but also paves the way for its operational use, further advancing India’s space exploration and satellite deployment capabilities.
With the successful launch of SSLV-D3, ISRO has demonstrated its continued commitment to advancing India’s space exploration capabilities. The transition to the operational phase of the SSLV program promises to enhance the nation’s satellite deployment efficiency, solidifying India’s position as a global leader in space technology.
