In what was its last satellite launch for 2020, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched communication satellite CMS-01 using the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV)-C50 on Wednesday from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR, Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh.
The PSLV-C50 rocket lifted off from the second launch pad of SDSC SHAR at 15:41 hours (IST) carrying CMS-01. After a flight of about 20 minutes 12 seconds, the vehicle injected the satellite into its intended orbit.
CMS-01 is the 42nd communication satellite of India.
After injection, the solar panels of CMS-01 were automatically deployed and ISRO’s master control facility at Hassan, Karnataka, assumed control of the satellite. In the coming days, orbit raising manoeuvres will be executed to position the satellite in the geostationary orbit at its designated location.
After the successful launch, ISRO Chairman Dr. K Sivan appreciated the tireless efforts of both the satellite and launch vehicle teams in realising this mission amidst the Covid-19 pandemic.
CMS-01 is a communication satellite envisaged for providing services in the Extended-C Band of the frequency spectrum. The Extended-C Band coverage will include the Indian mainland and the island union territories of Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep.
PSLV-C50 is the 52nd flight of PSLV and the 22nd flight of PSLV in ‘XL’ configuration, with six strap-on motors). This was the 77th launch vehicle mission from SDSC SHAR.
Talking about the upcoming PSLV-C51 mission, Dr. K Sivan said “The mission will be the fruition of the space reforms recently introduced in the country.”
He further added that the mission will carry three satellites built by private entities.
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