Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV)

In Context

• The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is hoping to have all three development flights planned for its ‘baby rocket’ — the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) — in 2022 itself.
  • The first development flight is expected to take place in the month of June.

About the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) 

• Background: 
  • Dr Somanath is credited with designing and developing the SSLV during his tenure as director of the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre in Thiruvananthapuram since 2018.
• It is a 3 stage Launch Vehicle configured with three Solid Propulsion Stages and liquid propulsion based Velocity Trimming Module (VTM) as a terminal stage.
  • All three stages of the SSLV will be solid propulsion stages.
• The SSLV can carry satellites weighing a maximum 500 kg to low orbit, while the PSLV can launch satellites weighing above 1000 kg.
• The key features of SSLV:
  • Low cost, with low turn-around time, flexibility in accommodating multiple satellites, Launch on demand feasibility, minimal launch infrastructure requirements, etc.

Image Courtesy:TH

Image Courtesy:nsilindia

• Aims: 
  • Development of a cost-effective launch vehicle with a high launch frequency and a quick turnaround capability to cater to the growing opportunities in the global launch services market for small satellites
  • To create greater synergy between the space sector and private Indian industries .

Source:TH