PSLV-C54 successfully places nine satellites, including Oceansat-3, in orbit

AMARAVATI: Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle-C54 (PSLV-C54) developed by Indian Space Research Organization has successfully launched nine satellites including eight nano satellites into space. The satellites were launched at 11.56 am today from the Satish Dhawan Space Center in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.

The most important satellite launched on a 44.4 m long rocket is the Earth Observation Satellite-6 named Oceansat-3. This is the 24th launch of the PSLVXL edition.

Eight nano-satellites were jointly built by India, Bhutan and some private companies. Earth Observation Satellite-6 is the third generation satellite in the Oceansat series. It was developed to provide continuity to the services of Oceansat-2. Oceansat satellites are developed for studying the oceans and for weather monitoring. The satellites will be aligned with the Sun's orbit. The satellites are aligned in such a way that they are always in proportion to the Sun.

PSLVC-54 is also carrying Anand, a technology demonstrator nanosatellite aimed at demonstrating the capabilities and commercial applications of miniaturized Earth observation cameras. This mission uses the rocket to change its orbit using the two-orbit change thrusters (OCT) used on the PSLV-C54 launch vehicle. It is also the longest mission undertaken by ISRO scientists.