The ISRO has successfully launched two Singaporean satellites, TeLEOS-2 and Lumelite-4, into orbit using the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (ISRO PSLV-C55).
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launched two Singaporean satellites into orbit today (22nd April 2023) using the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) C55 in its 57th mission.
The successful launch of Singaporean satellites – TeLEOS-2 and Lumelite-4 into the projected orbit is a game changer for the satellite industry, especially for the Government of Singapore.
The PSLV-C55 mission seized another milestone in India’s commercial space program, demonstrating its higher reliability and performance for commercial missions of such class.
Let’s take the insights of the successful launch, the satellite specifications, the benefits of the satellites for Singapore, and the future of India’s commercial space program.
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ISRO PSLV-C55 Launch & Its Payloads
PSLV-C55 Rocket
ISRO PSLV-C55 launched the two Singaporean satellites, TeLEOS-2 and Lumelite-4, into the intended orbit.
The mission was carried out with utmost precision, and both satellites were successfully placed in the desired orbit.
TeLEOS-2 Satellite
TeLEOS-2 is a synthetic aperture radar satellite developed under a collaboration between the Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA) representing the Government of Singapore and ST Engineering.
The satellite would aid the satellite image requirements of various agencies within the Government of Singapore.
TeLEOS-2 also carries a Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) payload, providing all-weather day & night coverage. It is capable of imaging at one-meter full polarimetric resolution for Singapore.
Lumelite-4 Satellite
Lumelite-4 is a high-tech 12U satellite built for the technology demonstration of the High-Performance Space-borne VHF Data Exchange System (VDES).
It is co-developed by the Institute for Infocomm Research and Satellite Technology & Research Centre of the National University of Singapore.
The objective of the satellite is to enhance Singapore’s e-navigation maritime safety & benefit the global shipping community.
Benefits of the Satellites for Singapore
The successful launch of TeLEOS-2 and Lumelite-4 satellites into orbit is a major step for Singapore in enhancing its satellite capabilities.
TeLEOS-2 would provide high-resolution images that will be used for disaster management, maritime surveillance, and border security.
The satellite would also be utilized for environmental monitoring and urban planning. While Lumelite-4 would contribute to the safety of maritime navigation in Singapore waters, benefitting the global shipping community.
ISRO’s Commercial Space Program
ISRO’s commercial arm, NewSpace India Limited, received the order for the two Singaporean satellites.
This mission demonstrated ISRO’s high reliability and propriety for commercial missions.
ISRO targets to increase the production and launches of PSLV in the upcoming years, with the aim of cutting down the cost of the rocket and its integration time.
Future of India’s Commercial Space Program
ISRO has a substantial commercial space program, and the successful launch of the two Singaporean satellites is a major achievement for India.
ISRO aims to develop a new rocket, the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV), to differentiate the growing demand for small satellite launches.
The SSLV would be a game changer for India’s commercial space program, offering low-cost access to space for small satellites.
Conclusion: ISRO PSLV-C55/TeLEOS-2 Mission
The successful launch of the 2 Singaporean satellites into orbit using PSLV-C55 by ISRO is a major achievement in the global space industry.
The two Singapore satellites, TeLEOS-2 and Lumelite-4, have been established into orbit using the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (ISRO PSLV-C55).
The satellites, developed under a partnership between Singaporean government agencies and ISRO’s commercial arm NewSpace India Ltd, will support Singapore’s satellite imaging requirements and maritime safety, respectively.
The latest ISRO mission marked the 57th successful launch of PSLV and the 16th mission for ISRO using the PSLV Core Alone configuration.
The mission demonstrated the high reliability and suitability of the rocket for commercial missions.
ISRO’s achievements in space exploration and technology development continue to strengthen India’s position as a leading player in the global space industry.
