The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) yesterday said that its maiden Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) suffered a glitch because of which the satellites were placed in the wrong orbit and are no longer usable.
A statement from the space agency said, “SSLV-D1 placed the satellites into 356 km x 76 km elliptical orbit instead of 356 km circular orbit. Satellites are no longer usable. The issue is reasonably identified. Failure of a logic to identify a sensor failure and go for a salvage action caused the deviation.”
Furthermore, ISRO also said that a committee would review the issue and propose changes for future endeavours. With the implementation of the recommendations, ISRO will plan SSLV-D2, the space agency said.
The SSLV was carrying an earth observation satellite EOS-02 and co-passenger students satellite AzaadiSAT.
AzaadiSAT project kicked off six months back. A total of 750 school girls from India participated in the making of this satellite to mark the 75 years of Independence. The students created history by making a small 8 kg microsatellite.
On August 15, 2018, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made an announcement that the Tricolour will be unfurled in space during India’s 75th year of Independence. Apart from scientific and flight instruments on board, AzaadiSAT was carrying the Indian tricolour, which was to be unfurled in space to mark India’s 75th year of Independence.
ISRO’s SSLV-D1/EOS-02 mission was aimed at increasing India’s share in the small launch vehicles market, as it can place the satellites into Low Earth Orbit.
Also Read: ISRO Launches AzaadiSat Made By 750 School Girls Across India
