The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is poised to launch the European Space Agency’s (ESA) PROBA-3 satellites into space, marking another significant milestone in international space collaboration. The launch, scheduled for Wednesday, December 4, will utilize ISRO’s reliable Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV)-C59 to place the satellites into a highly elliptical orbit.
The PROBA-3 mission, an In-Orbit Demonstration (IOD) initiative by ESA, is designed to showcase precise formation flying, a cutting-edge technology in satellite deployment. Weighing approximately 550 kg, the satellites represent a sophisticated European effort to refine orbital dynamics.
ISRO, in a statement, highlighted that the PSLV-C59 launch involves four intricate stages, underscoring the precision and trustworthiness of its PSLV system. The PSLV, which first took flight in 1994, has become a workhorse for ISRO, with a track record of deploying satellites for diverse applications and global clients.
In its previous mission, PSLV-C58 successfully launched XPoSat, India’s first dedicated satellite for X-ray polarimetry, into an eastward low-inclination orbit on January 1, 2024. XPoSat marked a breakthrough for India in conducting advanced scientific observations and research on X-ray emissions from celestial sources.
As ISRO prepares for the PSLV-C59 mission, the organization continues to demonstrate its capabilities in meeting the demands of global space initiatives. The collaboration with ESA is a testament to ISRO’s growing reputation as a dependable partner for satellite launches.
This mission further cements ISRO’s position on the global stage as it advances its technological prowess and strengthens international partnerships. All eyes are now on December 4, as PSLV-C59 is set to carry the European satellites to their designated orbit, showcasing India’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of space exploration.
