PSLV-XL Proba-3 launch: Why Europe chose ISRO over SpaceX
PSLV-XL Proba-3 launch: Why Europe chose ISRO over SpaceX
In News
ISRO’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle-XL (PSLV-XL) is set to launch the European Space Agency’s (ESA) Proba-3 mission on 4 December 2024 from Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota.
The mission aims to study the Sun’s corona through a unique two-satellite formation flying experiment.
Key Highlights of Proba-3 Mission
Satellites:
Coronagraph Spacecraft (CSC)
Occulter Spacecraft (OSC)
Unique Feature:
The two satellites will fly in precise formation at a distance of 150 m.
Together they will simulate a large space-based coronagraph, blocking direct sunlight and enabling continuous observation of the solar corona for up to 6 hours per orbit.
Objective:
Improve understanding of the Sun’s outer atmosphere (corona) and solar physics.
Why PSLV-XL?
Success rate: Over 97% across 60 launches.
High precision: Reliable for mission-critical payloads.
Cost-effective: Competitive compared to SpaceX Falcon 9, Soyuz-2, Long March 4, Nuri, and retired Atlas V.
Strategic choice: Selected amid geopolitical challenges and need for smaller payload efficiency.
India–Europe Space Cooperation
MoU (2021): ESA agreed to support ISRO in human spaceflight, lunar, and solar missions.
Training: Indian Gaganyaan astronauts are being trained at ESA facilities.
Commercial Role:
NewSpace India Limited (NSIL)—ISRO’s commercial arm (est. 2019)—secured the Proba-3 contract directly with ESA.
