In 2023, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) achieved remarkable milestones by launching eight rockets and a spacecraft, with all four of its launch vehicles (SSLV, PSLV, GSLV, and LVM3) and the only spacecraft (RLV-TD) performing their missions efficiently.
SSLV-D2/EOS-07 Mission
In February, ISRO conducted the second launch of the SSLV rocket, achieving success in placing three satellites (EOS-07, Janus-1, and AzaadiSAT-2) into their required orbits. This launch demonstrated the new rocket’s capability in executing national and commercial missions quickly and efficiently.
LVM3 M3/ OneWeb India-2 Mission
The LVM3 rocket improved its record with its second commercial mission launch in March, successfully placing 36 satellites for OneWeb (now Eutelsat OneWeb) into low Earth orbit. This mission is a complex achievement that required precise navigation to ensure each satellite reached its designated location within exact time frames to avoid collisions.
RLV-TD Spacecraft
The RLV-TD space vehicles are considered strategic assets with important military applications and potential space warfare capabilities. In April, the RLV-TD completed an automatic landing on a runway after being dropped from a height of 5 kilometers by an Indian Air Force helicopter. After a few years of testing, India can hope to have a full-scale spacecraft that can be used to transport cargo or satellites into space and execute highly advanced strategic missions.
GSLV-F12/NVS-01 Mission
In August 2021, the GSLV rocket experienced a failure in its final stage (the cryogenic engine), resulting in the loss of an expensive satellite that was expected to provide unprecedented capabilities for monitoring India’s borders. In May 2023, the GSLV successfully placed the navigation satellite NVS-01 and proved its performance capabilities. Despite the challenges faced, the GSLV is expected to continue successfully executing future missions.
LVM3 M4 – Chandrayaan-3 Mission
In July, the LVM3 rocket successfully launched the Chandrayaan-3 mission, placing it into an ideal orbit. This mission marks a fantastic start for the complex journey to land on the Moon. After the launch of Chandrayaan-3, the success rate of LVM3 increased, with seven consecutive successful launches, and it is being reused for the upcoming Gaganyaan crewed mission.
PSLV (TeLEOS-2, DS-SAR, Aditya-L1) Rocket
The PSLV rocket conducted three missions in 2023, carrying Singaporean satellites as its main clients. With its successful track record, the PSLV is a preferred choice for a wide range of missions.
TV-D1 Test Vehicle
ISRO developed a small test vehicle called TV (Test Vehicle) based on the Vikas rocket working on the main stages of PSLV, GSLV, and LVM3 rockets. In October, the test vehicle was scheduled to test the in-flight abort system for the Gaganyaan crew module, which is expected to carry Indian astronauts to space and return them safely. By successfully launching the TV-D1 on time and testing the success of the abort system, ISRO concluded the year successfully.
With these remarkable achievements, ISRO has proven its ability to recover from mistakes, make necessary corrections, and achieve success in its assigned missions. These accomplishments serve as evidence of ISRO’s capacity for innovation and excellence in the field of space.
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