ISRO is set to launch the Earth Observation Satellite-8 (EOS-8) from Sriharikota on August 15. This significant event will see the satellite being deployed by the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV)-D3, a launch that is poised to enhance India’s capabilities in Earth observation.
The upcoming launch of EOS-8 is a milestone for ISRO. The satellite, designed for Earth observation, will be carried into space by the SSLV-D3. The launch will take place at 9:27 IST from Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh, marking the third and final developmental flight of the SSLV. This mission will complete the SSLV Development Project, paving the way for operational missions by Indian industry and NewSpace India Limited (NSIL).
In a recent announcement on the microblogging site X, ISRO shared details about the launch, emphasising the significance of this mission. The primary objectives of the EOS-8 mission are to design and develop a microsatellite, create payload instruments compatible with the microsatellite bus, and incorporate new technologies required for future operational satellites. This effort aims to boost the technological and operational capabilities of India’s space missions.
EOS-8 is built on the Microsat/IMS-1 bus and carries three advanced payloads: the Electro Optical Infrared Payload (EOIR), the Global Navigation Satellite System-Reflectometry Payload (GNSS-R), and the SiC UV Dosimeter. Each of these payloads is designed to serve specific functions that will enhance Earth observation capabilities.
The EOIR payload is equipped to capture images in the Mid-Wave IR (MIR) and Long-Wave IR (LWIR) bands, both during the day and night. This capability is crucial for various applications including satellite-based surveillance, disaster monitoring, environmental monitoring, fire detection, volcanic activity observation, and industrial and power plant disaster monitoring. The ability to monitor such events from space provides valuable data that can be used for timely and effective response.
The GNSS-R payload, on the other hand, demonstrates the capability of using GNSS-R-based remote sensing for applications such as ocean surface wind analysis, soil moisture assessment, cryosphere studies over the Himalayan region, flood detection, and inland waterbody detection. This payload will enhance the understanding of environmental and climatic conditions, providing crucial data for scientific research and disaster management.
The SiC UV Dosimeter payload is designed to monitor UV irradiance at the viewport of the Crew Module in the Gaganyaan Mission. Additionally, it serves as a high-dose alarm sensor for gamma radiation, ensuring the safety of future manned missions. This feature highlights the satellite’s role in supporting India's ambitious human spaceflight program.
The EOS-8 mission is designed for a duration of one year, during which it will provide critical data and insights. The satellite's capabilities are expected to significantly contribute to various sectors including environmental monitoring, disaster management, and scientific research. The data gathered by EOS-8 will not only benefit India but also the global scientific community.
The launch of EOS-8 is a testament to ISRO’s ongoing efforts to advance India’s space capabilities. The satellite’s advanced payloads and the successful deployment by SSLV-D3 mark significant achievements in the country's space exploration endeavours.
This mission underscores the importance of continued innovation and development in space technology, paving the way for future missions and technological advancements.
As ISRO continues to push the boundaries of space exploration, the successful launch of EOS-8 will serve as a milestone in India's journey towards becoming a leading spacefaring nation.
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