ISRO’s 3rd and Final Developmental Flight Successfully Lifts Off from Sriharikota Spaceport

New Delhi: ISRO achieved a significant milestone on Friday with the successful launch of its third and final developmental flight, the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle-D3 (SSLV-D3). The launch took place at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, located about 135 km east of Chennai. The rocket lifted off as planned at 9:17 am, carrying the Earth Observation Satellite EOS-08.

The SSLV-D3 mission represents a critical advancement in ISRO’s efforts to expand its capabilities in deploying small satellites into low Earth orbit. This launch is part of ISRO’s broader strategy to develop cost-effective and efficient launch solutions for smaller payloads, which are becoming increasingly important in the global space industry. The SSLV is specifically designed to meet the growing demand for launching small satellites, offering quick turnaround times and flexible launch options.

One of the key objectives of the SSLV-D3 mission was the deployment of the EOS-08 microsatellite, which is designed for Earth observation. The satellite will provide valuable data for various applications, including agriculture, forestry, and disaster management. The success of this mission not only enhances ISRO’s satellite portfolio but also underscores the agency’s ability to deliver reliable and precise satellite launches.

With the successful launch of SSLV-D3, ISRO is poised to strengthen its position in the global space market, particularly in the domain of small satellite launches. This achievement is expected to open new avenues for future missions, catering to both domestic and international clients seeking flexible and affordable launch solutions.