Sriharikota (Andhra Pradesh): The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is on the cusp of a historic milestone as its upcoming Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) mission, scheduled for January, will mark the 100th launch from the iconic Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.
The announcement comes after the successful 99th launch, the PSLV-C60 mission, on Monday, which placed two spacecraft—A and B—for the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) into a circular orbit. ISRO Chairman and Secretary of the Department of Space, S. Somanath, shared the achievement with reporters.
“This 99th launch is a proud moment for us as it paves the way for the landmark 100th mission early next year,” said Mr. Somanath. He commended the team’s efforts and hinted at ambitious missions on the horizon.
Future Mission Highlights
The GSLV mission in January will deploy the NVS-02 satellite, continuing ISRO’s advancement in navigation technology. Following the successful launch of the NVS-01 satellite aboard the GSLV-F12 rocket in May 2023, the NVS-02 will further bolster India’s indigenous Navigation with the Indian Constellation (NavIC) system, critical for providing accurate positioning services across the country.
Looking ahead, 2025 is expected to be packed with high-profile missions as ISRO continues to strengthen India’s position in space exploration and satellite technology.
Innovations in Space Docking
Reflecting on the significance of the PSLV-C60 mission, Mr. Somanath highlighted the importance of the Space Docking Experiment. This mission, he noted, underscores ISRO’s growing focus on complex docking systems, a critical technology for future interplanetary missions and space station modules. “We are now poised to explore more advanced docking systems and take on even more challenging experiments in the days to come,” he added.
Precision in Launch Timing
The PSLV-C60 mission’s launch timing was adjusted from the originally planned 9:58 PM to 10:00 PM on December 30 to ensure optimal safety and accuracy. ISRO scientists conducted a conjunction study to prevent potential proximity between the newly launched satellites and others already in orbit.
“Safety is paramount in space operations. We ensure that every satellite we launch maintains a safe distance from others in its orbital path,” Mr. Somanath explained.
A Milestone to Remember
The January GSLV mission is set to make history, cementing Sriharikota’s legacy as a hub of Indian space exploration. With its 100th launch, ISRO not only celebrates past successes but also looks ahead to a future filled with bold innovations and transformative missions that will propel India further into the global space arena.
Stay tuned as ISRO continues to script history, one mission at a time.
