Question

Read the following statements marked as Assertion (A) and Reason (R). Choose the correct option:

Assertion (A): The Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) is widely recognized as the workhorse launch vehicle of ISRO.

Reason (R): PSLV is highly versatile, capable of launching a diverse range of payloads into various Earth orbits (including Earth Observation, small Geosynchronous, and Navigation satellites), and boasts an exceptionally high mission success rate across its different variants.

• A. Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
• B. Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A
• C. A is true, but R is false
• D. A is false, but R is true

Answer 1

Answer:

A. Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A

The Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV)

• Assertion (A) Significance: The Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) is indeed ISRO's (Indian Space Research Organisation) most trusted and frequently utilized launch vehicle, earning the title of 'workhorse'. This is due to its consistent performance and reliability over many years.

• Reason (R) Versatility Explained: The reason for PSLV's 'workhorse' status lies in its remarkable versatility and success rate.

  • Payload Diversity: PSLV can carry a wide array of payloads, meaning it can launch different types of satellites.

  • Orbital Capabilities: It is capable of placing these satellites into various orbits around the Earth. This includes:

    • Earth Observation Satellites: Used for monitoring Earth's surface, weather, and resources.

    • Small Geosynchronous Satellites: Placed into orbits where they appear stationary above a point on Earth.

    • Navigation Satellites: Such as those in the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS) or NavIC.

  • High Success Rate: PSLV has a proven track record of successful missions, contributing significantly to India's space capabilities and international collaborations. This high reliability across its different configurations (like PSLV-G, PSLV-CA, PSLV-XL) makes it the preferred choice for many launches.

• Key Historical Fact: The PSLV program began in the 1980s with the objective of developing a reliable launch vehicle for India's satellite needs, reducing reliance on foreign launchers. Its first successful launch was in 1994.