Question

What is the name of the latest Space mission launched by ISRO?

• A. PSLV-C 61/EOS-09
• B. Aditya-L1
• C. Gaganyaan-1
• D. VGSAT-29

Answer 1

Answer:

A. PSLV-C 61/EOS-09

Understanding the PSLV-C61/EOS-09 Mission

• The mission name PSLV-C61/EOS-09 refers to a significant launch by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
• PSLV-C61 stands for the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle's 61st consecutive flight. The PSLV is often referred to as ISRO's 'workhorse' launch vehicle due to its high reliability and versatility for launching various types of satellites into different orbits.
• EOS-09 is the designation for the primary payload, an Earth Observation Satellite. It was previously known as Oceansat-3.

• Key Objectives of EOS-09 (Oceansat-3):

  • The primary objective of EOS-09 is to monitor ocean colour, sea surface temperature, and wind vector data.
  • It plays a crucial role in studying ocean biology, climate studies, and weather forecasting, particularly for understanding marine ecosystems and potential fishing zones.
  • The satellite is equipped with advanced sensors such as an Ocean Colour Monitor (OCM-3), Sea Surface Temperature Monitor (SSTM), Ku-Band Scatterometer (SCAT-3), and Argos Payload.
• The PSLV-C61 mission also carried eight Nano-satellites as co-passengers, including two from Bhutan (INS-2B & NanoMx), four from India (Anand, Thybolt-1, Thybolt-2, and PiXEL), and two international customer satellites (Astrocast from Switzerland and two from Luxembourg).
• This mission marked one of ISRO's routine and successful space endeavours, showcasing its continued capability in satellite launches for national and international clients.

ISRO and Space Missions: Facts for Competitive Exams

• ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) is the national space agency of India, headquartered in Bengaluru.
• It was founded in 1969, succeeding the Indian National Committee for Space Research (INCOSPAR), which was established in 1962.
• The founding father of the Indian space program is Dr. Vikram Sarabhai.
• ISRO's first satellite, Aryabhata, was launched on April 19, 1975, by the Soviet Union.
• Besides PSLV, ISRO also operates the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV), used for heavier satellites and geostationary transfers.
• Notable ISRO missions include Chandrayaan (Lunar Missions), Mangalyaan (Mars Orbiter Mission), and Gaganyaan (Human Spaceflight Program).
• The success of missions like PSLV-C61/EOS-09 underscores India's growing self-reliance and global position in space technology.