Source: IE
Subject: Science and Technology
Context: ISRO’s PSLV-C62 mission suffered a failure due to an anomaly in its third stage (PS3), marking the second consecutive PSLV failure after PSLV-C61 in May 2025.
About Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV):
What it is?
- PSLV is India’s third-generation orbital launch vehicle, designed primarily to place satellites into Polar and Sun-Synchronous Orbits, and known globally as ISRO’s workhorse rocket.
Developed by:
- It is developed and operated by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) through its various centres including Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre and Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre.
PSLV: Key Stages:
- PS1: First Stage (Powerful liftoff stage):
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- Uses a large solid rocket motor (S139) and strap-on boosters
- Fuel: HTPB (solid fuel)
- Its job is to lift the heavy rocket off the ground and push it through the thickest part of the atmosphere
- Strap-on boosters give extra push, like turbo engines during takeoff
- PS2: Second Stage (Control and stability stage):
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- Uses the Vikas liquid engine
- Fuel: UDMH + Nitrogen Tetroxide
- This stage gives smooth, controlled thrust after PS1 burns out
- It helps the rocket stay stable and on the right path while climbing higher
- PS3: Third Stage (High-speed booster):
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- Uses a solid motor (S7)
- Fuel: HTPB
- This stage provides a big speed boost needed to reach near-orbital velocity
- Think of it as the final sprint before the satellite is placed in orbit
- PS4: Fourth Stage (Precision stage):
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- Uses two liquid engines (PS4)
- Fuel: MMH + MON
- This stage acts like a fine-tuning engine
- It precisely places satellites into the correct orbit and can make small adjustments
Functions of PSLV:
- Launches Earth observation, navigation and communication satellites.
- Places satellites in Low Earth Orbit, Polar Orbit and GTO.
- Supports India’s strategic, commercial and scientific missions.
- Backbone of India’s space commercialisation through NSIL.
