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The Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) is set to launch its latest Earth Observation Satellite, EOS-08, aboard the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV)-D3.
This mission marks the third development flight of the SSLV and highlights Isro's ongoing advancements in satellite technology and launch capabilities.
The EOS-08 mission aims to design and develop a microsatellite, create payload instruments compatible with the microsatellite bus, and incorporate new technologies for future operational satellites.
Built on the Microsat/IMS-1 bus, EOS-08 will carry three key payloads, which include the Electro Optical Infrared Payload (EOIR) designed to capture images in the Mid-Wave IR (MIR) and Long-Wave IR (LWIR) bands, both during the day and night. Its applications include satellite-based surveillance, disaster monitoring, environmental monitoring, fire detection, volcanic activity observation, and industrial disaster monitoring.
The Global Navigation Satellite System-Reflectometry payload (GNSS-R) will demonstrate the capability of using GNSS-R-based remote sensing for ocean surface wind analysis, soil moisture assessment, cryosphere studies over the Himalayan region, flood detection, and inland waterbody detection.
The SiC UV Dosimeter instrument has been designed to monitor 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 EOS-08 satellite is designed 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 one year. Weighing approximately 175.5 kg, EOS-08 incorporates several advanced features, including integrated avionics system also known as the Communication, Baseband, Storage, and Positioning (CBSP) Package.
This system combines multiple functions into a single efficient unit, supporting up to 400 Gb of data storage.
The EOS-08 mission represents a significant step forward in satellite technology, with innovations such as X-band data transmission, advanced battery management systems, and enhanced thermal management materials.
The mission also emphasises indigenisation efforts, including solar cell fabrication processes and the use of a Nano-Star Sensor for microsatellite applications.
SSLV is a major leap forward in India's space capabilities, offering a cost-effective and flexible solution for launching small satellites into low Earth orbit.
The SSLV is designed to cater to the growing global demand for small satellite launches. With a payload capacity of up to 500 kg to Low Earth Orbit (LEO), it fills a crucial niche in the satellite launch market. The vehicle's compact size and quick turnaround time make it ideal for launching smaller satellites, which are increasingly popular for Earth observation, communications, and scientific research.
