Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, witnessed a significant milestone as the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) commenced 2024 with the flawless launch of its first X-Ray Polarimeter Satellite, XPoSat. Launched aboard the PSLV-C58 rocket on its 60th mission, XPoSat was successfully deployed into its designated 650 km orbit. ISRO later shared a video showcasing the satellite’s orbital insertion.
India’s foray into dedicated polarimetry missions positions it as the second country, following the United States, to explore the characteristics of celestial bodies by discerning the direction of incoming wave vibrations.
This groundbreaking mission is poised to enhance our understanding of the emission mechanisms from various astronomical sources, including black holes, neutron stars, active galactic nuclei, and pulsar wind nebulae. By delving into the complex physical processes behind these phenomena, XPoSat aims to unravel the mysteries of the cosmos.
ISRO Chairperson S Somnath addressed the press post-launch, outlining the organization’s ambitious plan for 2024. He stated, “Only in 12 months (in 2024), we have to have a minimum of 12 missions on our target. It may exceed depending upon our ability to produce hardware, complete the testing, and if things go well.” Somnath expressed optimism about the prospect of 12-14 missions within the designated timeframe.
Somnath also provided updates on other key missions. India’s first solar mission, Aditya-L1, launched on September 2, is set to undergo its final maneuver, reaching its intended destination, the L1 point, on January 6.
Regarding the Gaganyaan mission, Somnath detailed upcoming plans, including at least two more abort missions, one unmanned mission, parachute drop tests, and numerous valuation tests. The ISRO chief emphasized that 2024 would be a pivotal year for Gaganyaan readiness, marked by helicopter-based drop tests to validate parachute systems and extensive evaluations.
As India propels itself into the forefront of space exploration, ISRO’s successful XPoSat launch sets the stage for a year of ambitious missions and breakthroughs, reinforcing the country’s commitment to advancing space science and technology.
