Y Programme Unveiled
ISRO's development of the PSLV involved a foundational program known as 'Y'. This program, spanning seven years and running parallel to the SLV and PSLV initiatives,
was instrumental in laying the groundwork for the successful PSLV program. The 'Y' program's complete name remains undisclosed in the provided context, emphasizing its significance as a crucial precursor to the PSLV's advancements. The program was a foundational part of ISRO's broader efforts in space exploration.
Vikas Engine's Heritage
The PSLV's liquid-fuelled second stage utilizes the Vikas engine, which is a derivative of the French Viking engine. In 1974, ISRO acquired the technology for the Vikas engine from France. This agreement was structured as an exchange, rather than a direct financial transaction. ISRO provided 100 man-years of engineering work, contributed to the production of parts for the European rocket, and supplied thousands of pressure transducers. The information highlights ISRO's innovative approach to technology transfer, enabling it to build critical expertise and resources without incurring large monetary expenditures. The Vikas engine played a crucial role in the PSLV's capabilities.
Guiding Rocket's Path
To steer the PSLV's massive first stage, ISRO implemented a Secondary Injection Thrust Vector Control system, which differs from traditional methods. Instead of tilting the main engine nozzle, the system injects a chemical solution of X into one side of the nozzle's exhaust flow. This asymmetrical thrust directs the rocket's movement. In the given context, X is the chemical solution used for steering. This method of control is a critical aspect of the PSLV's design, enabling precise maneuvering during launch and ascent to the desired orbit. This approach showcases ISRO's engineering ingenuity in navigating complex challenges during launch.
POEM: Orbiting Platform
Instead of discarding the fourth stage (PS4) of the PSLV as space debris, ISRO has ingeniously repurposed it as a stabilized orbital platform, named POEM. This platform remains operational in orbit for several months after deployment, serving as a hub for student payloads and scientific experiments. POEM allows for the temporary operation of various payloads and facilitates space-based research, and represents ISRO’s innovative strategy for sustainable space operations. POEM's full form is not provided in the original context, emphasizing its role as a functional platform.
Martensitic Steel's Role
The PSLV rocket's first stage solid motor is encased in an ultra-high-strength alloy steel. This material, a critical component of the rocket's structural integrity, is a result of ISRO's indigenous efforts. The alloy's name is a portmanteau of ‘martensitic’ and ‘ageing’. This material was not readily available due to international export controls, hence, ISRO developed the capacity to manufacture this steel locally. The development of this steel underscores ISRO’s emphasis on self-reliance in its pursuit of space exploration.
Record-Breaking Missions
The PSLV-C37 mission, launched in February 2017, achieved a world record by deploying 104 satellites in a single flight. This feat required a complex deployment sequence, where satellites were released in pairs at precise angles to prevent collisions. This mission set a significant milestone in space exploration. In 2021, the record set by the PSLV-C37 mission was broken by SpaceX. This fact highlights the dynamic nature of space technology and the ongoing progress in launching numerous payloads into orbit simultaneously.
