The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched the PSLV-C58/XPoSat mission from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, signaling a wonderful start to 2024.
This launch is significant in terms of both science and national pride, driving India farther into the domain of cosmic exploration.
Why important?
ISRO’s first dedicated scientific satellite, XPoSat (X-ray Polarimeter Satellite), will conduct research on space-based polarisation measurements of X-ray radiation from astronomical sources.
This is not just India’s first dedicated polarimetry mission, but also the world’s second, following NASA’s Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer (IXPE) mission, which will launch in 2021.
Important Terms Used:
Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV): ISRO’s workhorse, noted for its dependability and cost-effectiveness. This four-stage rocket has launched over 50 missions, successfully deploying satellites in diverse orbits.
XPoSat:India’s first specialized mission to research the polarization of X-rays emitted by astronomical phenomena such as pulsars, black holes, and accretion disks.
Understanding the Importance:
This mission is critical to India’s space program for various reasons:
XPoSat will give unprecedented data on the behavior of X-rays, assisting scientists in understanding the dynamics of harsh cosmic settings. It will provide fundamental answers to fundamental problems regarding the origin and evolution of stars, neutron stars, and black holes.
The project demonstrates India’s indigenous capabilities in satellite development and launch technologies. The XPoSat POLIX and XSPECT payloads showcase cutting-edge advances in X-ray instrumentation.
Global Recognition: India’s successful space missions cement the country’s position as a world leader in space exploration, stimulating international collaborations and recruiting top scientific talent.
The Unsung Hero: PSLV
The PSLV serves as the foundation of ISRO’s launch capability. Its adaptability allows it to transport many types of satellites into diverse orbits. The PSLV launched XPoSat into a 650 km orbit, then performed two operations to reduce it to a 350 km circular orbit, excellent for scientific studies.
XPoSat: Unlocking the Cosmos’ Secrets:
The XPoSat spacecraft, carrying two scientific payloads, is designed for observation from Low Earth Orbit (non-sun synchronous orbit of 650 km height, low inclination of around six degrees). With these two payloads, the XPoSat mission may study the temporal, spectral, and polarization properties of powerful X-Ray sources at the same time.
XPoSat is equipped with two research payloads:
POLIX (Polarimeter Instrument in X-rays): This instrument measures the degree and angle of polarization of X-rays, which provides important information on the magnetic field and geometry of the emitting source.
XSPECT (X-ray Spectroscopy and Timing): Investigates the energy and timing of X-rays in order to uncover physical processes occurring within astronomical objects.
XPoSat will reveal the hidden mysteries of the universe by examining the polarization and spectral features of X-rays, providing fundamental insights into the origin and behavior of cosmic giants.
What is the mission’s aim?
The XPoSat mission is to examine the universe’s 50 brightest known sources, including as pulsars, black hole X-ray binaries, active galactic nuclei, neutron stars, and non-thermal supernova remnants 1.
The satellite will be launched into a 500-700 km circular low Earth orbit with a mission lifespan of at least five years.
POLIX (Polarimeter Instrument in X-rays), the principal payload, will measure the degree and angle of polarization in the medium X-ray energy range of 8-30 keV photons of astronomical origin. POLIX will be supplemented by the XSPECT (X-ray Spectroscopy and Timing) payload, which will give spectroscopic data in the energy range of 0.8-15 keV.
Conclusion:
The PSLV-C58/XPoSat mission is a watershed moment in India’s scientific and technological development. It is a monument to ISRO scientists and engineers’ dedication and ability in pushing the boundaries of space research. As XPoSat sets off on its mission, it bears the hopes of a nation anxious to solve cosmic riddles and contribute to global scientific endeavors.
Key Points for Prelims:
The mission is planned to last about five years.
The Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) will launch the XPoSat from the Satish Dhawan Space Center in Sriharikota.
The XPoSAT mission launch also marked the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle’s (PSLV) 60th flight. The 260-tonne rocket transports a cutting-edge astronomy telescope designed to examine black holes and neutron stars.
ISRO’s first dedicated scientific satellite, XPoSat (X-ray Polarimeter Satellite), will conduct research on space-based polarisation measurements of X-ray radiation from astronomical sources.
This is not just India’s first dedicated polarimetry mission, but also the world’s second, following NASA’s Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer (IXPE) mission, which will launch in 2021.
The POLIX payload was created by the Raman Research Institute (RRI) in Bengaluru, with assistance from Isro centers, while the XSPECT payload was created by Isro’s UR Rao Satellite Centre (URSC).
The PSLV-C58 rocket in Low Earth Orbit powers the mission.
What exactly is PSLV-C58?
The “C58” in PSLV-C58 refers to the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) configuration or variant employed in that mission. It’s a method of differentiating one PSLV launch from another.
Depending on the objective and context, the letter “C” can have a variety of meanings. Here’s how it works:
The most prevalent meaning of “C” in PSLV missions is “Core Alone.” It denotes that the rocket used only its core stages, with no strap-on boosters, which are normally used for lighter payloads.
Continuation (C): The first three PSLV launches were marked as “D” (Development) missions, whereas following flights were designated as “C” for “Continuation.”
Commercial (C): In some cases, such as the aforementioned PSLV-C26 and C23, “C” implies a commercial launch mission.
As a result, while understanding the significance of “C” in PSLV missions, it is critical to evaluate the individual mission and context. While it can occasionally represent a commercial flight, it does not applicable in all cases, such as PSLV-C58, where it largely denotes the “Core Alone” configuration.
58: The PSLV’s sequential flight number in this configuration. In other terms, PSLV-C58 was the 58th mission flown in Core Alone mode.
So why is C58 the 60th mission instead than 58?
The PSLV program’s 58th operational launch, or the 58th flight in which the rocket carried a payload designed for operational usage.
The PSLV program’s 60th overall flight, including both operational and developmental launches.
Important factors to remember:
PSLV is available in four basic configurations: PSLV-CA (Core Alone), PSLV-XL (six strap-on motors), PSLV-DL (two strap-ons), and PSLV-QL (four strap-ons).
Each configuration is determined based on the payload’s weight and orbit requirements.
The flight number assists in tracking the launch history and performance of various PSLV models.
In the case of PSLV-C58/XPoSat:
The PSLV rocket was used in its Core Alone configuration (C) for the mission.
C58 Mission Number: Some sources state that PSLV-C58 was the 58th mission of the Core Alone configuration, while others, including reliable official sources from ISRO, indicate it was the 60th overall mission of the PSLV program.
Its major goal was to put the XPoSat satellite into orbit.
Lets understand about PSLV:
The PSLV, which stands for Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle, is an expendable launch vehicle developed by the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO). It is used to launch satellite payloads into space, primarily for Earth observation, remote sensing, and scientific research purposes.
The PSLV consists of four stages and can carry payloads ranging from a few kilograms to several tons. Here’s a brief overview of how it works:
First Stage (PS1):The PSLV’s first stage is powered by solid propellant, which provides the initial thrust to lift the rocket off the ground. It consists of a core motor and six strap-on motors, which enhance the vehicle’s total thrust.
Second Stage (PS2):The second stage also uses solid propellant and further propels the rocket into space. It ignites after the first stage burns out and separates. The PS2 carries forward the ascent of the vehicle and increases its altitude.
Third Stage (PS3):The PSLV’s third stage uses a liquid-based propulsion system called the Vikas engine. It primarily operates using a mixture of UDMH (unsymmetrical dimethylhydrazine) as fuel and N2O4 (nitrogen tetroxide) as oxidizer. The PS3 helps the rocket reach higher altitudes and speeds.
Fourth Stage (PS4): The fourth stage is the final stage and is also powered by the Vikas engine, but with some modifications. It is used to achieve the precise orbit required by the satellite payload. The PS4 can be restarted and shut down multiple times to perform complex orbit maneuvers.
Payload Fairing: The PSLV’s payload fairing is a protective structure that encapsulates the satellite payload during the initial stages of the launch. Once the rocket reaches a certain altitude, the fairing is jettisoned to reduce weight and allow the satellite to be exposed to space.
Separation of Stages: After each stage has performed its role, they are jettisoned to reduce the weight of the remaining vehicle. This ensures a more efficient use of fuel and improves the overall performance of the rocket.
Satellite Injection:Once the upper stages have completed their tasks, the satellite payload is injected into its desired orbit. The PS4 stage precisely releases the satellite into the designated orbit using its propulsion system.
Overall, the PSLV has been a reliable and versatile launch vehicle, with numerous successful launches to its credit. It has played a crucial role in India’s space program and has enabled the country to deploy various satellites for communication, remote sensing, navigation, and scientific exploration.
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1 / 8
Category:General Studies
What is the name of the space center from which XPoSat was launched?
Answer is C
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched the PSLV-C58/XPoSat mission from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, signaling a wonderful start to 2024.
2 / 8
Category:General Studies
What is the name of the rocket used to launch XPoSat?
Answer is A
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched the PSLV-C58/XPoSat mission from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, signaling a wonderful start to 2024.
3 / 8
Category:General Studies
How many stages does PSLV have?
Answer: D) 4
Explanation: PSLV consists of four stages. The first stage is powered by solid propellant, the second stage also uses solid propellant, the third stage uses a liquid-based propulsion system, and the fourth stage is powered by a modified version of the same liquid-based engine.
4 / 8
Category:General Studies
Which of the following correctly describes the primary objective of the XPoSat satellite?
Answer is A
XPoSat's primary focus is on studying the polarization of X-rays, which can reveal insights into the magnetic fields and structures of celestial objects.
5 / 8
Category:General Studies
What does PSLV stand for?
Answer: b) Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle
Explanation: PSLV stands for Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle. It is an expendable launch vehicle developed by the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) for launching satellite payloads into space.
6 / 8
Category:General Studies
What is the expected mission life of XPoSat?
Answer is C
The mission is planned to last about five years.
7 / 8
Category:General Studies
Which of the following instruments is NOT onboard XPoSat?
Answer is C
POLIX and XSPECT are the primary instruments onboard XPoSat, while CZTI is a payload on a different Indian satellite (AstroSat)
8 / 8
Category:General Studies
What does the "C58" in PSLV-C58 refer to?
Answer is A
While some sources indicate PSLV-C58 as the 58th mission of a specific configuration, reliable official sources confirm it was the 60th overall mission of PSLV.
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Critically analyze the scientific and technological significance of the PSLV-C58/XPoSat mission for India’s space program, highlighting its potential contributions to astrophysics and the advancement of indigenous space technology. (250 words)
Model Answer:
The PSLV-C58/XPoSat mission marks a significant leap forward for India’s space program, holding immense scientific and technological significance.
Scientific Importance:
Unlocking Cosmic Secrets: XPoSat, carrying instruments like POLIX and XSPECT, will study the polarization and spectral characteristics of X-rays emitted by celestial objects like pulsars, black holes, and accretion disks. This data will provide crucial insights into their magnetic fields, formation, evolution, and behavior, offering answers to fundamental questions about the universe’s most extreme environments.
Advancing Astrophysics: This mission will lead to groundbreaking discoveries in astrophysics, potentially revealing new details about the dynamics of stellar explosions, the nature of neutron stars, and the mechanisms of X-ray beaming in black hole binaries.
International Collaboration: XPoSat’s data opens doors for international collaboration with prestigious research institutions, propelling India to the forefront of global astrophysical research.
Technological Importance:
Indigenous Spacecraft Development: XPoSat showcases India’s growing capabilities in designing and building sophisticated satellites equipped with cutting-edge instruments. This mission strengthens India’s position as a major player in the international space technology market.
Rocket Proficiency: The successful launch by the PSLV, India’s workhorse launch vehicle, demonstrates its reliability, cost-effectiveness, and versatility. This mission solidifies India’s expertise in launch technology and opens doors for launching heavier and more complex missions in the future.
Future Space Explorations: The technological advancements achieved through XPoSat lay the groundwork for future ambitious missions, paving the way for India’s exploration of deep space and potentially leading to breakthroughs in fields like planetary science and solar system research.
Conclusion:
The PSLV-C58/XPoSat mission marks a pivotal moment in India’s space program, with its scientific and technological contributions pushing the boundaries of knowledge and innovation. It stands as a testament to India’s dedication to space exploration and its commitment to unraveling the mysteries of the universe.
Question 2:
Discuss the economic and strategic implications of India’s growing space capabilities, drawing specific examples from the PSLV-C58/XPoSat mission and other recent achievements. (250 words)
Model Answer:
India’s burgeoning space program, exemplified by the successful launch of PSLV-C58/XPoSat, carries significant economic and strategic implications for the nation.
Economic Implications:
Boosted Space Economy: The success of XPoSat and other missions strengthens India’s position as a reliable and cost-effective launch provider, attracting international customers and generating revenue for the Indian space industry.
Technological Spin-offs: Advancements in satellite and launch technology developed for space missions translate into advancements in various sectors like telecommunications, navigation, weather forecasting, and disaster management. This technological prowess fuels innovation and economic growth.
Job Creation: The space industry creates high-skilled jobs in engineering, research, and manufacturing, fostering talent development and contributing to overall economic growth.
Strategic Implications:
Enhanced National Security: Advanced space capabilities bolster India’s national security through improved communication, intelligence gathering, and early warning systems, enabling better monitoring of borders and maritime zones.
Geopolitical Standing: India’s growing space power enhances its international prestige and influence, allowing it to collaborate with other spacefaring nations on major scientific projects and strengthening its strategic partnerships.
Defense Applications: Space technology plays a crucial role in modern warfare, with applications in areas like missile guidance, communication blackout, and satellite-based navigation. Mastering these technologies strengthens India’s defense capabilities.
Examples:
PSLV’s consistent success in launching various satellites strengthens India’s self-reliance in space-based applications critical for national security and economic development.
Development of advanced technologies like reusable launch vehicles and cryogenic engines enhances India’s future space ambitions and strategic edge.
Conclusion:
The PSLV-C58/XPoSat mission exemplifies India’s commitment to advancing its space capabilities, reaping both economic and strategic benefits. These benefits extend beyond scientific discoveries, leading to technological advancements, economic growth, and enhanced national security, further consolidating India’s position as a leading spacefaring nation.
Remember: These are just sample answers. It’s important to further research and refine your responses based on your own understanding and perspective.
Relevance to the Prelims and Mains syllabus under the following topics:
UPSC Prelims:
Science & Technology: This mission falls under the Science & Technology section, particularly focusing on space technology advancements. Questions could probe the functionalities of XPoSat, the significance of X-ray studies, or the capabilities of the PSLV.
Current Affairs: The successful launch itself could be a part of current affairs questions, especially related to India’s space program achievements.
UPSC Mains:
General Studies Paper III (Science & Technology): This paper could delve deeper into the scientific objectives of XPoSat, its potential research applications, and the technological advancements showcased by the mission.
Optional Papers: If you choose relevant optional subjects like Physics, Astrophysics, or Space Science, understanding XPoSat and its scientific contributions could prove valuable.
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