ISRO’s Upcoming Launch: An Experimental Satellite Mission Aboard a “Small” Rocket

India is preparing to enter the lucrative small satellite launch market with the launch of the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV). This rocket will carry the EOS-8 and SR-0 Demo Sat satellites, with EOS-8 packed with new experimental technologies to support ISRO’s and India’s goals. The SSLV experienced a failed first flight in 2022 but was successful on its second flight in February 2023.

ISRO plans to transfer the technology for SSLV to the industry after this third flight, testing nearly 21 new technologies in the process. The SSLV is regarded as a game-changer due to its slim design and capability to carry a few hundred kilograms to space, with a turnaround time of one week. India hopes the industry will take over the SSLV launcher to make it a commercial success, potentially increasing its use beyond satellite launches to include missiles.

The SSLV, standing at 34 meters tall and weighing 120 tonnes, has been in development for over seven years with a total cost exceeding Rs 170 crore. Analysts estimate that each SSLV launch will cost about Rs 30-35 crore, making it one of the most affordable launchers in its class. The global small satellite industry is growing rapidly and is anticipated to reach $13.71 billion by 2030, thereby offering a significant promise for SSLV commercialization.

According to Dr. Sankaran, if the upcoming launch is successful, the technology will be transferred to industrial partners to facilitate commercialization. The ‘Decadal Vision and Strategy for Indian Space Economy,’ authored by the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe), further supports the planned transfer of small rocket technology to the industry.