ISRO launches Earth Observation Satellite EOS-08

ISRO’s latest Earth Observation Satellite ‘EOS-08’ launched by the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV)-D3 from Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Shriharikota.The primary objectives of the EOS-08 mission include designing and developing a microsatellite, creating payload instruments compatible with the microsatellite bus, and incorporating new technologies required for future operational satellites.

Image Credit: ISRO

Built on the Microsat/IMS-1 bus, EOS-08 carries three payloads: Electro Optical Infrared Payload (EOIR), Global Navigation Satellite System-Reflectometry payload (GNSS-R), and SiC UV Dosimeter. The EOIR payload is designed to capture images in the Mid-Wave IR (MIR) and Long-Wave IR (LWIR) bands, both during the day and night, for applications such as satellite-based surveillance, disaster monitoring, environmental monitoring, fire detection, volcanic activity observation, and industrial and power plant disaster monitoring. The GNSS-R payload demonstrates the capability of using GNSS-R-based remote sensing for applications such as ocean surface wind analysis, soil moisture assessment, cryosphere studies over the Himalayan region, flood detection, and inland waterbody detection. Meanwhile, the SiC UV Dosimeter monitors UV irradiance at the viewport of the Crew Module in the Gaganyaan Mission and serves as a high-dose alarm sensor for gamma radiation.

The spacecraft mission configuration is set to operate in a Circular Low Earth Orbit (LEO) at an altitude of 475 km with an inclination of 37.4°, and has a mission life of 1 year. The satellite has a mass of approximately 175.5 kg and generates power of around 420 W. It interfaces with the SSLV-D3 launch vehicle. EOS-08 marks a significant advancement in satellite mainframe systems such as an Integrated Avionics system, known as the Communication, Baseband, Storage, and Positioning (CBSP) Package, which combines multiple functions into a single, efficient unit. This system is designed with cold redundant systems using commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) components and evaluation boards, supporting up to 400 Gb of data storage. Additionally, the satellite includes a structural panel embedded with PCB, an embedded battery, a Micro-DGA (Dual Gimbal Antenna), an M-PAA (Phased Array Antenna), and a flexible solar panel, each serving as key components for onboard technology demonstration.

The satellite employs a miniaturized design in its Antenna Pointing Mechanisms, capable of achieving a rotational speed of 6 degrees per second and maintaining a pointing accuracy of ±1 degree. The miniaturized phased array antenna further enhances communication capabilities, while the flexible solar panel incorporates a foldable solar panel substrate, GFRP tube, and CFRP honeycomb rigid end panel, offering improved power generation and structural integrity. A pyrolytic graphite sheet diffuser plate, known for its high thermal conductivity of 350 W/mK, reduces mass and finds application in various satellite functions. Furthermore, the EOS-08 mission adopts a new method of integrating housekeeping panels using a hinge-based fixture, significantly reducing the duration of the Assembly, Integration, and Testing (AIT) phase.

Incorporating additional novel schemes, the EOS-08 mission improves satellite technology through X-band data transmission, utilizing pulse shaping and Frequency Compensated Modulation (FCM) for X-Band data transmitters. The satellite’s battery management system employs SSTCR-based charging and bus regulation, sequentially including or excluding strings at a frequency of 6 Hz. The mission’s indigenization effort is evident in its solar cell fabrication processes and the use of a Nano-Star Sensor for Microsat Applications. Additionally, the inertial system benefits from reaction wheel isolators that attenuate vibrations and a single antenna interface is utilized for TTC and SPS applications. Thermal management is enhanced using materials such as AFE BGA, Kintex FPGA, Germanium Black Kapton, and STAMET (Si-Al Alloy) Black Kapton to handle the thermal properties of COTS components. The mission also incorporates an auto-launch pad initialization feature, further demonstrating its commitment to innovative mission management.

IAF’s Wing Commander Shubhanshu Shukla picked as ‘Prime Astronaut’ for Indo-US Mission to Space Station

Indian Air Force Wing Commander Shubhanshu Shukla has been selected as the prime astronaut for the upcoming Indo-US mission to the International Space Station (ISS), the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has announced. A joint statement signed between India and the US during the official state visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in June 2023 envisioned a joint ISRO-NASA effort to the ISS.

Towards the goal of mounting a joint ISRO-NASA effort, the Human Space Flight Centre (HSFC) of ISRO has entered into a Space Flight Agreement (SFA) with NASA-identified service provider Axiom Space Inc, USA for its upcoming Axiom-4 mission to the ISS, the Indian space agency said. A National Mission Assignment Board has recommended two Gaganyatris as prime and backup Mission Pilot for this mission. These include Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla (Prime) and Group Captain Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair (Backup).

During the mission, the Gaganyatri will undertake selected scientific research and technology demonstration experiments on board the ISS as well as engage in space outreach activities. The experiences gained during this mission will be beneficial for the Indian Human Space Program and it will also strengthen human space flight cooperation between ISRO and NASA.

Gaganyaan: India Names Astronauts for Maiden Space Flight

India's ambitious Gaganyaan mission has captured the world's attention as it prepares to send its first astronauts into space. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) recently announced the selection of astronauts who will be part of this historic journey, marking a significant milestone in the country's space exploration endeavors.

Importance of India's Maiden Space Flight

The Gaganyaan mission holds immense significance for India on various fronts. It not only demonstrates India's technological prowess but also reaffirms its status as a spacefaring nation. As the fourth country in the world to undertake a manned space mission, India's endeavor highlights its commitment to pushing the boundaries of space exploration.

Selection Process for Astronauts

The selection process for astronauts for the Gaganyaan mission was rigorous and comprehensive. Candidates underwent stringent physical, mental, and psychological evaluations to assess their fitness for space travel. The criteria included physical fitness, mental resilience, problem-solving skills, and the ability to perform effectively in high-pressure environments.

Astronauts Chosen for Gaganyaan Mission

After meticulous evaluation, ISRO announced the names of the astronauts who will embark on the historic Gaganyaan mission. The selected astronauts embody a diverse range of expertise, including military pilots, scientists, and engineers, reflecting India's commitment to inclusivity and diversity in its space program.

The officers, chosen from the Indian Air Force, were introduced as Group Captain Prashanth Balakrishnan Nair, Group Captain Ajit Krishnan, Group Captain Angad Pratap, and Wing Commander Shubhanshu Shukla. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Isro chief S Somanath pinned badges with golden wings onto their shirts and Mr Modi described them as "India's pride".

Training Regimen for Astronauts

The chosen astronauts will undergo extensive training to prepare them for the challenges of space travel. Training modules will include simulations of spaceflight, zero-gravity environments, survival skills, and mission-specific tasks. ISRO, in collaboration with international space agencies, will ensure that the astronauts are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to undertake the mission successfully.

Challenges Faced During Selection and Training

The selection and training process for astronauts posed numerous challenges, including the need for cutting-edge technology, specialized facilities, and experienced instructors. Additionally, ensuring the physical and mental well-being of the astronauts during training presented unique challenges, requiring innovative approaches and methodologies.

Significance of Gaganyaan Mission for India's Space Program

The Gaganyaan mission represents a significant milestone for India's space program, showcasing its capability to undertake complex and ambitious missions. It opens up new avenues for scientific research, technological innovation, and international collaboration. Moreover, it inspires future generations of scientists, engineers, and astronauts to pursue careers in space exploration.

International Collaboration and Partnerships

India's foray into manned spaceflight has garnered international attention and fostered collaboration with leading space agencies worldwide. Collaborative efforts in areas such as technology transfer, joint research initiatives, and astronaut training reflect the spirit of global cooperation in space exploration.

Future Prospects for India in Space Exploration

The success of the Gaganyaan mission is expected to propel India's space program to new heights, paving the way for more ambitious missions in the future. With plans for lunar exploration, satellite launches, and interplanetary missions, India is poised to play a significant role in shaping the future of space exploration.

Public Excitement and Anticipation

The announcement of astronauts for the Gaganyaan mission has generated widespread excitement and anticipation among the Indian public. The prospect of witnessing Indian astronauts journeying into space has captured the imagination of millions, fostering a sense of national pride and unity.

Impact on India's Global Standing

India's entry into manned spaceflight reaffirms its position as a global leader in space exploration and technology. It enhances India's soft power and diplomatic influence on the world stage, showcasing its capabilities in science, technology, and innovation.

Conclusion

The selection of astronauts for India's maiden space flight marks a historic milestone in the country's space exploration journey. The Gaganyaan mission not only showcases India's technological prowess but also reflects its commitment to pushing the boundaries of human achievement in space.

FAQs

Q. What is the Gaganyaan mission?
ANS: The Gaganyaan mission is India's maiden manned space flight endeavor, aimed at sending Indian astronauts into space.

Q. How were the astronauts chosen for the mission?
ANS: The astronauts for the Gaganyaan mission underwent rigorous selection processes, including physical, mental, and psychological evaluations.

Q. What are the training requirements for the astronauts?
ANS: The selected astronauts undergo extensive training, including simulations of spaceflight, zero-gravity environments, and mission-specific tasks.

Q. What are the challenges of manned spaceflight?
ANS: Manned spaceflight poses various challenges, including technological, physiological, and psychological factors that need to be addressed for mission success.

Q. What are the future prospects for India in space exploration?
ANS: India's success in the Gaganyaan mission paves the way for more ambitious space exploration endeavors, including lunar exploration and interplanetary missions.

Indian Earth Observation Satellite-6 (EOS-6) was launched

The third generation Indian satellite for monitoring the oceans, formally named Earth Observation Satellite-6 (EOS-6) was launched by the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) in partnership with the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) among others, from its First Launch Pad (FLP) at Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC), Sriharikota. The ocean observing mission is a follow-up to OceanSat-1 or IRS-P4 and OceanSat-2 launched in 1999 and 2009, respectively. The satellite was launched aboard the proven launch vehicle PSLV (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle) on its 56th flight (24th flight of the PSLV-XL version).

The Oceansat-3 was placed in the polar orbit at a height of about 740 kilometers above sea level. While at 1100 kilograms, it is only slightly heavier than Oceansat-1, for the first time in this series it houses three ocean observing sensors viz Ocean Color Monitor (OCM-3), Sea Surface Temperature Monitor (SSTM), and Ku-Band scatterometer (SCAT-3). There is also an ARGOS payload. All these sensors have their own importance for India’s blue economy aspirations.

The advance 13-channel OCM with 360 m spatial resolution and 1400 km swath will observe the day side of the earth every day and will provide crucial data on the distribution of ocean algae which is the base of the food chain within the marine ecosystem. The OCM-3 with a high signal-to-noise ratio is expected to provide improved accuracy in daily monitoring of phytoplankton having a wide range of operational and research applications including fishery resource management, ocean carbon uptake, harmful algal bloom alerts, and climate studies.

ISRO makes history by successfully launching India’s maiden private Vikram-suborbital (VKS) rocket

 Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) made history today by launching successfully India’s maiden private Vikram-suborbital (VKS) rocket. ISRO says, "Mission Prarambh is successfully accomplished", while Skyroot Aerospace said, "Vikram-S makes history as the first private rocket of India to grace the skies". Skyroot was the first StartUp to sign an MoU with ISRO for launching its rockets. It was the nation's first private launch, it is also the maiden mission of Skyroot Aerospace, named "Prarambh".