Daily News Analysis ‘A look at ongoing Indian space missions’: 23 August

Mission Names

Year

Key Points

Gaganyaan

October, 2023

• ISRO conducted its first abort mission for Gaganyaan using a modified L-40 Vikas engine.
• The test proved the Crew Escape System’s ability to safely detach and descend, ensuring astronaut safety.
• The crew module was successfully recovered by INS Shakthi.

XPoSat

January, 2024

•  XPoSat is India’s X-ray Polarimeter Satellite.
• Aim: To investigate the polarization of X-ray radiation from celestial objects.
• The satellite, with XSPECT and POLIX instruments, began operations to enhance our understanding of cosmic phenomena.

INSAT-3DS

February, 2024

• It is a meteorological satellite carried by a Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV).
• Aim: To enhance weather forecasting and climate monitoring.

• It is crucial for validating the GSLV’s performance before the NISAR mission.

RLV-TD Pushpak

June, 2024

• ISRO used a downscale version of the Reusable Launch Vehicle, called Pushpak, to conduct two landing experiments –LEX-02 and LEX-03.
• These tests with the Pushpak vehicle evaluated space re-entry and landing, aiding ISRO’s reusable space vehicle plans.

Next-Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV)

Project report submitted: (February, 2024)

• A new 3-stage launch vehicle is being developed to replace GSLV.
• Powered by Semi-cryogenic, liquid, and cryogenic engines.
• The project report submitted to the Union Cabinet.