The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) plans to launch a communication satellite known as CMS-01 on November 2, 2021. The mission will take place from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) located in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. The launch is scheduled for 15:02 hours IST (Indian Standard Time) using the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C53) rocket.
The CMS-01 is a communication satellite designed to provide services in the Extended-C band of the frequency spectrum. Its coverage will include the Indian mainland as well as the Andaman and Nicobar and Lakshadweep islands. The Extended-C band is often used for voice and video communications, making the satellite a valuable asset for India’s communication infrastructure.
The launch of CMS-01 is part of ISRO’s ongoing efforts to increase the country’s capabilities in space. The satellite will replace the existing GSAT-12, which was launched in 2011 and has surpassed its mission life. The CMS-01 will be the 42nd communication satellite of India and is expected to have a mission life of more than seven years.
The launch vehicle, PSLV-C53, has a strong track record and has been used in several previous successful ISRO missions. The PSLV is a four-stage launch vehicle with alternating solid and liquid stages. It is designed to place satellites into polar orbits and has also been used in several lunar and interplanetary missions.
In addition to the CMS-01, the PSLV-C53 will also carry two smaller co-passenger satellites. These include INSPIREsat-1, a scientific satellite built by an international consortium of universities, and ANAND, a technology demonstrator satellite built by the Indian start-up Pixxel.
The launch of CMS-01 comes at a time when ISRO is preparing for several major missions in the near future, including the launch of the GISAT-1 geo-imaging satellite and the first unmanned mission of the Gaganyaan programme. The success of these missions will be crucial in maintaining India’s position as a leading player in the global space industry.
ISRO continues to make significant strides in space exploration and satellite technology, reinforcing India’s status as a global leader in space science. The upcoming launch of CMS-01 will not only bolster India’s communication capabilities but also demonstrate ISRO’s commitment to advancing the nation’s technological prowess.
Source link