ISRO Chief S Somanath Updates on PSLV XPoSat Success and Exciting Plans for 2024 Space Missions

ISRO Chief S Somanath, during the Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University convocation in Hyderabad, shared positive insights on the performance of the recently launched PSLV XPoSat, stating that the satellite is “doing very well.” He also outlined the upcoming ambitious plans for 2024, including GSLV launches, the INSAT-3DS climate satellite launch, and the much-anticipated Gaganyaan human spaceflight programme.

The PSLV XPoSat, launched on January 1, has exhibited excellent performance, with all instruments functioning as expected. Somanath expressed optimism about obtaining valuable results from the mission. Anticipating an eventful 2024, Somanath revealed plans for numerous launches, including GSLV missions and commercial launches. He emphasized that 2024 will be the ‘Gaganyaan year.’

The next significant launch in January is the GSLV launch of INSAT-3DS, a climate and weather satellite designed to monitor cyclones, weather patterns, rainfall, drought, and more. Somanath highlighted a crucial manoeuver scheduled for January 6 in ISRO’s maiden solar mission, Aditya-L1. This manoeuvre will position the spacecraft into its final destination orbit around Lagrange point 1, approximately 1.5 million km from Earth.

The ISRO Chief emphasized the importance of economic activity and longevity of service while reducing costs in space-related activities. He cited the success of Chandrayaan-III, achieving a significantly lower cost for its landing compared to global counterparts. Somanath encouraged students at the convocation to embody qualities such as passion, excellence, focus, and a willingness to learn for success in both personal and professional life. He stressed the importance of determination and learning from failures to overcome challenges.

Somanath’s updates offer a glimpse into ISRO’s continued success and its ambitious plans to further advance India’s space exploration initiatives in the coming year.