ISRO's heaviest-ever launch today is test of capability, cost, Pg17

Key Highlights:

• ISRO is set to launch the LVM-3 rocket carrying the BlueBird Block-2 satellite on Wednesday, weighing approximately 6,100 kg.
• The BlueBird Block-2 satellite, designed by AST SpaceMobile, will be the largest commercial communications satellite deployed in Low Earth Orbit (LEO).
• The LVM-3 rocket will also be used for the Gaganyaan mission, India’s first crewed space mission, scheduled for next year.
• This mission is the third commercial launch for ISRO’s LVM-3, following the launch of OneWeb satellites in 2022 and 2023.

Detailed Insights:

• The BlueBird Block-2 satellite will provide direct-to-mobile connectivity, enabling 4G and 5G voice, video, and data services directly to mobile phones.
• ISRO aims to demonstrate its capability to conduct heavy launches at a lower cost compared to other options like SpaceX’s Falcon-9 and ESA’s Ariane 6.
• The LVM-3 rocket, previously known as GSLV-Mk3, was initially designed for geosynchronous orbits but is now being utilized for LEO missions.
• ISRO is working on increasing the thrust of the cryogenic upper stage (C32 stage) and considering semi-cryogenic engines to enhance the LVM-3's lift-off capacity for future missions like the Bharatiya Antariksh Station.
• The agency is also developing “bootstrap reignition” for cryogenic engines to improve efficiency in missions requiring satellites to be placed in different orbits.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Low Earth Orbit (LEO): An orbit around Earth at an altitude of less than 1,000 km.
• Cryogenic Engine: A rocket engine that uses liquefied gases at extremely low temperatures as fuel.
• Geosynchronous Orbit: An orbit approximately 36,000 km from Earth where a satellite's orbital period matches Earth's rotation.