Indian Space Capabilities

[Hindustani78]

Department of Space
15-February, 2017 12:57 IST
PSLV-C37 Successfully Launches 104 Satellites in a Single Flight

In its thirty ninth flight (PSLV-C37), ISRO's Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle successfully launched the 714 kg Cartosat-2 Series Satellite along with 103 co-passenger satellites today morning (February 15, 2017) from Satish Dhawan Space Centre SHAR, Sriharikota. This is the thirty eighth consecutively successful mission of PSLV. The total weight of all the 104 satellites carried on-board PSLV-C37 was 1378 kg.

PSLV-C37 lifted off at 0928 hrs (9:28 am) IST, as planned, from the First Launch Pad. After a flight of 16 minutes 48 seconds, the satellites achieved a polar Sun Synchronous Orbit of 506 km inclined at an angle of 97.46 degree to the equator (very close to the intended orbit) and in the succeeding 12 minutes, all the 104 satellites successfully separated from the PSLV fourth stage in a predetermined sequence beginning with Cartosat-2 series satellite, followed by INS-1 and INS-2. The total number of Indian satellites launched by PSLV now stands at 46.

After separation, the two solar arrays of Cartosat-2 series satellite were deployed automatically and ISRO's Telemetry, Tracking and Command Network (ISTRAC) at Bangalore took over the control of the satellite. In the coming days, the satellite will be brought to its final operational configuration following which it will begin to provide remote sensing services using its panchromatic (black and white) and multispectral (colour) cameras.

The imagery from the Cartosat-2 series satellite will be useful for cartographic applications, urban and rural applications, coastal land use and regulation, utility management like road network monitoring, water distribution, creation of land use maps, change detection to bring out geographical and manmade features and various other Land Information System (LIS) and Geographical Information System (GIS) applications. The data sets could be used for urban planning of 500 cities under the Amrut Planning Scheme. The government initiative of 100 smart city programme in which these data sets could be used for master plan preparation and detailed geospatial data preparation for rural roads and infrastructure development.

Of the 103 co-passenger satellites carried by PSLV-C37, two – ISRO Nano Satellite-1 (INS-1) weighing 8.4 kg and INS-2 weighing 9.7 kg – are technology demonstration satellites from India.

The remaining 101 co-passenger satellites carried were international customer satellites from USA (96), The Netherlands (1), Switzerland (1), Israel (1), Kazakhstan (1) and UAE (1).

This mission involved many technical challenges like realising the launch of a large number of satellites during a single mission within the time frame sought by the customers from abroad. Besides, ensuring adequate separation between all the 104 satellites during their orbital injection as well as during their subsequent orbital life was yet another challenge associated with this complex mission.

With today’s successful launch, the total number of customer satellites from abroad launched by India’s workhorse launch vehicle PSLV has reached 180.

****

President's Secretariat
15-February, 2017 11:53 IST
President of India congratulates ISRO for the successful launch into space of PSLV – C37, carrying a record 104 satellites

The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee has congratulated the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) for the successful launch into space of PSLV – C37, carrying a record 104 satellites.

In a message to Shri A.S. Kiran Kumar, Secretary, Department of Space and Chairman of ISRO, the President has said, “I extend my sincere congratulations and best wishes to you and your team at the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on the successful launch into space of PSLV – C37, carrying a record 104 satellites.

This day shall go down as a landmark in the history of our space programme. The nation is proud of this significant achievement, which has demonstrated, yet again, India’s increasing space capabilities.

Kindly convey my greetings to the members of your team of scientists, engineers, technologists and all others associated with this great mission. I urge ISRO to continue to strive for the progress of our space capabilities. I wish all your future endeavours great success.”

*****

Vice President's Secretariat
15-February, 2017 11:40 IST
Vice President congratulates ISRO for successful launch of 104 satellites

The Vice President of India, Shri M. Hamid Ansari has congratulated the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) on the successful launch of PSLV-C37 rocket that placed 104 satellites in to their orbits. The flawless launch underlined the efforts to make the use and exploration of space more accessible and affordable, he added.

Following is the text of Vice President’s message:

“I offer my congratulations to the Scientists, Engineers and Technicians of the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) for the successful launch of the PSLV-C37 rocket that placed 104 satellites including Cartosat 2 Series from India and 7 other counties in their designated orbits. This has been a history scripting effort of launching 104 satellites in a single launch.

The flawless launch has once again demonstrated India’s capabilities in the space sector and underlined our efforts to make the use and exploration of space more accessible and affordable.

I wish ISRO all the very best for the future.”

***

Prime Minister's Office
15-February, 2017 10:56 IST
PM congratulates ISRO on successful launch of PSLV-C37 and CARTOSAT satellite together with 103 nano satellites


The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has congratulated ISRO on successful launch of PSLV-C37 and CARTOSAT satellite together with 103 nano satellites.

"Congratulations to ISRO for the successful launch of PSLV-C37 and CARTOSAT satellite together with 103 nano satellites.

This remarkable feat by ISRO is yet another proud moment for our space scientific community and the nation. India salutes our scientists.

Spoke to the Secretary, Department of Space and congratulated him & the entire team of scientists on today's exceptional achievement", the Prime Minister said.

***

Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers
15-February, 2017 11:14 IST
Shri Ananthkumar congratulates ISRO on successful launch of PSLV-C37 and CARTOSAT satellite along with 103 other satellites in one go

Union Minister of Chemicals & Fertilizers and Parliamentary Affairs, Shri Ananthkumar has congratulated ISRO and entire team on the successful launch of PSLV-C37 carrying CARTOSAT satellite together with 103 other satellites.

Today, ISRO has created history by launching a record 104 satellites and placing at right orbit precisely in one go. It showcases the low cost innovation capability of ISRO and is a sterling example of 'Make in India'. It also demonstrates the capabilities of ISRO in handling complex space missions professionally and providing world class satellite launching services to various countries and agencies. The untiring efforts of entire team of ISRO is the guiding force for this great feat. I salute the ISRO team for keeping Indian Flag high in world and wish them great success for all projects in future, said Shri Ananthkumar.

*****

Space agency Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launching a record 104 satellites, including India’s earth observation satellite on-board PSLV-C37/Cartosat2 Series from the spaceport of Sriharikota.

 

[Hindustani78]

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/PSLV-launched-the-Indian-Moon-mission/article17308351.ece

The PSLV, 39 flights old since 1993, also launched the Indian Moon mission Chandrayaan-1 in 2008; and is set to launch a private lunar mission for Bengaluru start-up Team Indus in late December this year.

“It is confirmed that all 104 satellites have been successfully deployed in the orbit,” PTI quoted PSLV Project Director B. Jayakumar at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) as saying.

“After separation, the two solar arrays of Cartosat-2 series satellite were deployed automatically and ISRO Telemetry, Tracking and Command Network (ISTRAC) at Bengaluru took over the control of the satellite,” the space agency said.

In the coming days, the satellite will be brought to its final operational configuration. Thereafter, its panchromatic (black and white) and multi-spectral (colour) cameras will start giving remote sensing services.

Two Indian co-passengers are technology demonstrators: ISRO Nano Satellite-1 (INS-1) weighing 8.4 kg and INS-2 weighing 9.7 kg.

Of the 101 foreign co-passengers, 96 came from two U.S. customers; and one each from the Netherlands, Switzerland, Israel, Kazakhstan and the UAE.

Planet Labs, a U.S. Earth observation company, alone sent up 88 of its roughly 5-kg cubesats on this vehicle.

ISRO Chairman A.S. Kiran Kumar told PTI: “Now we are targeting [the bigger launchers] GSLV MarkII and then Mk III. A series of launch activities are planned this year also.”

The MkIII is designed to lift around 4,000 kg payloads to a higher geosynchronous orbit.

“It is one of the toughest missions we have handled,” said K. Sivan, Director of the launch centre, the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC).

Satish Dhawan Space Centre Director P. Kunhikrishnan said the extraordinary launch reiterated ISRO’s capability to professionally handle complex missions.

Mr. Jayakumar described the feat as “a great moment for each of us,” launching 104 satellites on a single rocket was a complex, yet enjoyable mission achieved through excellent team work.

Soon after the satellites were confirmed as deployed in space, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the ISRO Chairman and Team ISRO on the record-making launch.

People watch as as a rocket from Space agency Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) takes off successfully to launch a record 104 satellites, including India’s earth observation satellite on-board PSLV-C37 from the spaceport of Sriharikota on Wednesday. PTI Photo

 

[DavidSling]

India launches 104 nanosatellites into space, two of them Israeli
BGUSAT, developed by Ben Gurion University in collaboration with the Israel Aerospace Industries and the Ministry of Science, Technology and Space to study climate change and scientific phenomena from space.
Associated Press|Published: 15.02.17 , 17:27

India's space agency successfully launched more than 100 foreign nano satellites into orbit Wednesday aboard a single rocket, two of them Israeli.

The Indian Space Research Organization said the nano satellites—those weighing less than 10 kilograms (22 pounds)—were sent into orbit from the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle from the Satish Dhawan launching pad in southern India. It said the launching of the 104 satellites was a record, overtaking Russia's feat of sending 37 satellites in a single launch in 2014.

"All 104 satellites were successfully placed in orbit," the Press Trust of India news agency quoted ISRO Chairman A.S. Kiran Kumar as saying. They included an Indian Earth observation satellite and two small technology demonstration satellites.


India launches the rocket carrying the nanosatellites into space (Photo: AFP)

It is the first time that any Israeli university will have access to data from an Israeli nanosatellite for research purposes.

“This is the first time that Israeli researchers will have the opportunity to receive information directly from a completely blue and white satellite, without having to go through other countries or research agencies,” said Avi Belsberger, director of the Israel Space Agency.

The Israel Space Agency in the Science Ministry, IAI and BGU launched the nanosatellite project five years ago while actual construction of the satellite began two years ago at IAI’s space division. “This is another step in advancing cooperation between the government, industry and academia in order to promote the Israeli space industry,” said Science Minister Ofir Akunis.

“Only such a collaboration with government backing will preserve the Israeli space industry’s global standing, and will promote research, create new jobs, all while safeguarding the essential interests of Israel,” Akunis further commented in a statement.


The BGUSAT (Photo: IAI)

Following the satellite’s launch, the Israel Space Agency has allocated an additional NIS 1 million to fund future research based on the data to be received from the satellite and sent out a call for proposals. BGU and TAU have already submitted a joint proposal to study Earth’s airglow layer.

“Nanosatellites enable space engineering and space research at costs that are affordable for academia. The reduced costs allow academia to assume a much more active role in the field taking advantage of the innovation and initiative of researchers and students,” said Prof. Dan Blumberg, BGU’s VP and Dean for R&D.

Through the BGUSAT cameras, researchers will be able to track atmospheric gases like CO2 in order to understand climate change, to examine changes in ground moisture that could be an indicator of desertification and affect agricultural development or to monitor plant development in different regions.

The other Israeli nanosatellite belongs to the company SpacePharma.

The India rocket launching nanosatellites into space (Photo: EPA)

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted that the "remarkable feat by ISRO is yet another proud moment for our space scientific community and the nation."

India has been striving to become a player in the multibillion-dollar space launch market, and has successfully placed light satellites into orbit in recent years. It hopes to eventually send astronauts into space.

In September 2014, India successfully guided a spacecraft into orbit around Mars. Only the United States, the former Soviet Union and the European Space Agency had been able to previously do that.

Yaron Druckman and TPS contributed to this report.

https://defence.pk/threads/israel-space-industry.413930/page-2#post-9201601

 

[K210]

Upcoming missions:

Orbital launches:

GSLV MK-2/GSAT-9 - Late March
GSLV MK-3/GSAT-19E - Early April
PSLV-C38 - Early May

Experimental:

Pad abort test - before end of march

Engines:

CE-20 final test - Feb 17
SCE-200 - End of year

High power satellites:

GSAT-17 (3400kg)
GSAT-11 (5600kg!!)

 

[Hindustani78]

http://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/sc...ace-economy/article17311394.ece?homepage=true

The world’s applauding India’s successful PSLV-C37 launch, but India needs to radically improve to be a part of the space economy

India has launched the PSLV-C36 successfully, with 104 satellites on board. Apart from three Indian satellites, taking up 748.1 kg of its 1,500 kg capacity, it also carried 88 small satellites owned by a US-based company, Planet Labs, and others from five different countries.

This is despite the fact that US companies are not allowed to use Indian launch vehicles. In October 2015, the Commercial Space Transportation Advisory Committee, COMSTAC, noted “Antrix (ISRO’s commercial arm) will have an unfair advantage over domestic private sector competition, since it is an Indian governmental entity.”

But over the years some companies have managed to get waivers.

In 2015-16, Antrix earned a revenue of approximately ₹230 crore through such commercial launch services. But this is a mere 0.6 per cent of the global launch services market.

Though the PSLV launch is a feat, in fact a world record, it still doesn’t give India a bigger piece of the $5.9-billion global launch industry .

Three primary reasons for this are:

- There are two kinds of launches, commercial and noncommercial (military, civil). A US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) report notes that in 2015, just 26 per cent of total launches were commercial.

Commercial versus noncommercial launches in 2015


(Source: US FAA 2015)
Out of the 22 commercial launches, US (8 launches), Russia (5), and Europe (6) constituted the biggest chunk of the pie. All of China’s 19 launches, the third highest that year, were for either civil or military purposes. Overall, India launched only 5 vehicles, of which only 2 PSLVs were commercial. So, where does that place India in the space transportation market? Somewhere at the bottom. India earned only $66 million in revenues. Europe earned $1,066 million and the US $617.

2015 total worldwide commercial launch activity


(Source: US FAA 2015)
- In a response to a question in the Parliament last year, the PMO revealed that between 2013-2015 India’s total revenue for launching 28 non-Indian satellites was $101 million. However, a PIB report noted that during 2015-16, Antrix earned a revenue of approximately $34.4 million approx (Rs 230 crore) through commercial launch services, which is reported to be about 0.6 per cent of the global launch services market. FAA in fact notes that India’s estimated revenue for commercial for 2015 could be $66 million.

- Why is India’s share so low despite launching over 175 commercial satellites till date, including the ones on the most recent launch?

That is because while nano and micro satellites are becoming increasingly popular, the market lies in carrying heavier satellites. ISRO needs to develop more missions to carry heavier satellites. ISRO is still only a master at launching PSLV, which can carry only 2,000 kg or less into a Low Earth Orbit (between 300 km and 800 km). For India to gain an edge in the space economy, it has to further develop its GSLV with a capacity of over 3,000-5,000 kg to launch heavier satellites into a Geostationary orbit (GSO or GTO, over 36,000 km above earth surface). ISRO has completed only three GSLV launches since 2014.




Non-US Commercial launch vehicles 2014



Non-US Commercial launch vehicles 2014



US Commercial launch vehicles available in 2015
An FAA forecast in 2013 had noted that between 2015 and 2017, 39 per cent of satellite launches would be in the heaviest mass class (above 5,400 kg) whereas the lowest mass class (below 2,500 kg) would be just around 7 per cent. In 2014, of 15 non-US commercially available launch vehicles 9 were in the heavier mass class of 2,500 kg and above. In 2015, all of the five US and FAA-licensed launch vehicles had a capacity over 2,500 kg.


In comparison, the PSLV-C37 launched yesterday had a capacity of 1,500 kg and was carrying 1,360 kg.

http://www.thehindu.com/news/nation...inese-daily/article17311637.ece?homepage=true

Global Times says India’s feat offers “food for thought” on how to achieve space success with small budgets.
Grudgingly acknowledging the Indian Space Research Organisation’s world record feat of successfully launching 104 satellites on a single rocket would make “Indians proud,” China’s official media said on Thursday that India’s space programme offered “food for thought” for other countries on how to achieve space success with small budgets.

“This is perhaps the first widely followed world record India has made in the field of space technology. The Indians have reason to be proud,” state-run Global Times said in its editorial today.

‘Significance is limited’

However the tabloid daily, which criticised India in 2013 for sending Mangalyaan to Mars overtaking China, despite “millions of poor and illiterate people” said the significance of the ISRO’s new feat is “limited.”

“However, the space technology race is not mainly about the number of satellites at one go. It’s fair to say the significance of this achievement is limited,” it said.

Acknowledging that the new record is a “hard-won achievement for India to reach current space technology level with a relatively small investment,” the daily said “it offers food for thought for other countries.”

“India launched a lunar probe in 2008 and ranked first among Asian countries by having an unmanned rocket orbit Mars in 2013,” it said.

India ‘has done a good job’

“Many lessons can be drawn from India. As a rising power, it has done a good job. It is ambitious but pragmatic, preferring to compare with others as an incentive to progress. India’s political and social philosophy is worth pondering,” it said.

“Nonetheless, the development of a country’s space technology is determined by the size of its input. According to data released by the World Economic Forum in 2016, the U.S.’ space budget in 2013 was $39.3 billion, China $6.1 billion, Russia $5.3 billion, Japan $3.6 billion and India $1.2 billion,” it said.

“As India’s GDP is about one-fifth to one-fourth that of China’s, the share of investment in space technology in India’s GDP is similar to that of China’s,” it argued.

The daily, which has been carrying critical articles against India on almost on daily basis, also sought to make out a case that India is spending more on defence than China in terms of GDP ratio.

China’s last year’s budget amounted to $146 billion against India’s $46 billion.

“India’s defence budget is about one-third of China’s, a higher percentage of GDP than that of China,” it said.

http://www.thehindu.com/news/nation...-at-ISRO-scientist’s-home/article17308974.ece


A festive atmosphere prevailed at the residence of J. Sai Teja, a scientist/engineer of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), in his native town of Kothagudem on Wednesday following the successful launch of 104 satellites on a single PSLV mission from the space centre at Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh.

Friends and relatives of Mr. Teja, who was reportedly part of the team involved in the record-breaking feat, conveyed their wishes to his parents Ravi Kumar and Sudharani over telephone.

“It is a proud moment for every Indian as the ISRO achieved the remarkable feat,” said Mr. Ravi Kumar.

‘Great honour’

When contacted, he told The Hindu that it was a matter of great honour that his son was part of the team involved in the mission.

Sai Teja pursued his B.Tech (avionics) from the Thiruvananthapuram-based Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology and joined the ISRO as a scientist/engineer in 2013.

http://www.thehindu.com/news/nation...up-forsecond-moon-mission/article17313134.ece

Lunar lander ready to be tested

Flush with the success of the PSLV- C37 mission which set a world record by placing 104 satellites in orbit, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is turning its attention to India’s second lunar mission, Chandrayaan- 2, scheduled for 2018.

The static test of the lander module of Chandrayaan- 2 will be held at the ISRO Propulsion Complex, Mahendragiri, by the end of February.

Director, Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC), S. Somanath, told The Hindu that the test would measure the performance of the propulsion system of the lander module.

The Chandrayaan-2 craft consists of an orbiter, lander and rover to be launched as a composite stack into the earth parking orbit by a GSLV Mark 2 rocket. The orbiter later carries the combined stack upto the lunar orbit where the lander separates to make a soft landing on the moon’s surface and deploy the rover.

In contrast, the Chandrayaan-1 mission comprised only an orbiter and moon impact probe.

Challenges in soft landing

Mr.Somanath said the soft landing involved in the Chandrayaan- 2 mission required special propulsion and control systems and complex electronics. The lander would have four engines to make a controlled descent from the orbiter.

For the static test, the craft would be mounted on a frame and the four engines fired at varying thrust.

A month later, another lander module, a replica of the first one, would be tested in a suspended state. The craft would be hung from a crane and the engines fired to move the module in different directions and simulate a soft landing.

According to the ISRO website, the scientific payloads on board the orbiter, lander and rover of the Chandrayaan- 2 mission are expected to perform mineralogical and elemental studies of the lunar surface.

In 2010, it was agreed that the Russian space agency Roscosmos would develop the lunar lander while the ISRO would be responsible for the orbiter and rover as well as the launch by GSLV.

But with Roscosmos seeking more time to fulfil its commitment, ISRO took up the development of the lunar lander, turning Chandryaan-2 into a totally indigenous project.

Cryogenic engine

Meanwhile, the stage is set for the second ground test of the cryogenic upper stage of GSLV Mark 3, India's heaviest launch vehicle, at Mahendragiri on Friday. Designed and developed by the LPSC, the C- 25 engine which uses liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen for propulsion will be fired for 640 seconds during the test.

In January this year, the cryogenic stage was successfully tested for a duration of 50 seconds.

 

[gslv mk3]

ISRO conducts cryogenic engine-D stage test

 

[Hindustani78]

http://www.thehindu.com/news/nation...urates-science-exhibition/article17321757.ece

“Achievement is not an end, it needs not only be sustained, but enhanced,” said Dr. Guruprasad, senior scientist and Public Relations Officer of Indian Space Research Organisation, speaking after the successful launch of a record 104 satellites in one go recently.

Speaking to mediapersons after inaugurating the two-day ISRO’s Space Exhibition, organised as part of the ‘Smaveekshana-2017’, the annual tech-fest of the S.G. Balekundri Institute of Technology (SGBIT), here on Friday, he said that he was not sure if India had established a world record with the feat.

He said that of the 104 satellites, only three were Indian, while 96 were from USA, and one each was from Switzerland, Netherlands, Kazakhstan, Israel and UAE. Also, of the total 1,378 kg of satellites’ weight put into space, the primary satellite weighing 714 kg was Indian. A majority of the satellites were commercially owned by various corporate houses across the world.

So far, India has launched 180 satellites of foreign origin into space from India. ISRO had built more than 80 satellites so far.

Dr.Guruprasad said ISRO, as part of its outreach programme, had been conducting space exhibitions for students across the country with the objective of inspiring them to take an interest in space sciences and technology. The exhibits included pictorial panels portraying various stages of country’s space programme, achievements and models of the PSLV and satellites.

On the occasion, he also demonstrated and trained students on how to make water rockets using simple technology like a plastic bottle, water and an air pump. SGBIT principal S.S. Salimath was present.

 

[Hindustani78]

http://www.deccanherald.com/content/597172/isro-iaf-may-have-pay.html
New Delhi, Feb 19, 2017 (PTI)

Now, ISRO and IAF may have to pay the government for getting accurate timings on par with the global standard for various activities like launch of satellites and flight operations. So far, the National Physical Laboratory (NPL) has been extending the service free of cost to ISRO, IAF, Indian Railways, State Bank of India and several other agencies. The move is aimed at ramping up NPL's chronometer infrastructure to match global standards.

The NPL, one of the oldest laboratories in the country, maintains five atomic clocks, all synchronised with the atomic clock of the International Bureau of Weight and Measure, France. There are 300 such high precisions clocks across the globe linked to the Bureau in France. The accuracy of NPL's chronometer is (+/-) 20 nano seconds, whereas the global accuracy standard is as low as (+/-) 5 nano seconds.

The NPL under the premier Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) held separate meetings with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Indian Air Force (IAF) last week, conveying its plans to charge them for the services it offers. The plan is to charge Rs 1 crore per location where the service is provided, an NPL official said. Discussions are on to either issue a notification or bring in a legislation in this regard.

The NPL will also hold talks with its other customers like State Bank of India, India Railways and the Department of Telecommunications to discuss the issue. The high precision timing has impact on the lives of people as services by agencies like ISRO, banks, railways and telecom operators use NPL services. Agencies like ISRO trust the accurate timings during the launch of a satellite. In case of ISRO, timings are sent via satellite. Banks like SBI also subscribe to NPL services as high precision timing is required during forex transactions.

The CSIR, which comes under the Ministry of Science and Technology, plans to have 18 atomic clocks, a norm followed by all developed countries to maintain accuracy. Since several parts of north India fall under seismic zones, it also plans to develop a laboratory in south India. "At present, we have five atomic clocks and we will get five more by the end of the year. But this is not enough considering the growing demand for accurate timings by subscribers for which we need to maintain quality.

"Secondly, research and developing the system has to be a continuous process to keep in pace with the global standard," said NPL Director A K Aswal. He said that under the 'Dehradun Declaration' of the CSIR, laboratories have to generate 40 per cent of revenue required on its own. The NPL also plans to construct a separate building that can accommodate 18-20 atomic clocks and a data centre. This will alone cost Rs 500-600 crore. "This requires a different kind of building free from any kind of vibration, electro-magnetic disturbances, radiation, humidity and temperature," said Vijay Narain Ojha, chief scientist and head of Time & Frequency and Electrical & Electronics Meteorology Division.

The upkeep of the existing system is also expensive. The atomic clock requires low temperature without any power fluctuation. "So, air-conditioners have to be in operation for 365 days a year and 24x7. Maintenance and research also adds to the cost," Ashish Agarwal, another scientist at in the time and frequency section, said. Apart from atomic clock, NPL also assists industries, national and other agencies in their developmental tasks by providing precision measurements, calibration, development of devices, processes, and other allied problems related to physics.

*******
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/597223/gslvs-cryogenic-upper-stage-tested.html
Bengaluru, Feb 19, 2017, PTI:

ISRO on Saturday successfully tested its indigenously developed Cryogenic Upper Stage for GSLV MkIII.

It said the cryogenic stage, designated as C25, was tested for a flight duration of 640 seconds at ISRO Propulsion Complex at Mahendragiri in Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu, yesterday. C25 stage had earlier been tested successfully for 50 seconds on January 25, 2017 to validate all the systems.

Stating that prior to stage development hot tests, three CE20 engines were realised and two engines were subjected to qualification tests in sea level conditions, ISRO said, this included 800 seconds duration hot test and the third engine identified for flight was tested in high altitude conditions for a duration of 25 seconds.

This stage test is a significant milestone as it is the last in a series of engine and stage development hot tests before the first development flight of GSLV MkIII, it said.

GSLV MkIII, the next generation launch vehicle of ISRO, is capable of launching four ton class satellites into Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO). The GSLV MkIII vehicle integration activities are in progress at Satish Dhawan Space Centre or Sriharikota for its first development flight (GSLV MkIII-D1) targeted for April 2017.

The space agency described the C25 stage as the "most powerful" upper stage developed by ISRO which uses Liquid Oxygen (LOX) and Liquid Hydrogen (LH2) propellant combination.

It said the stage carries 27.8 tonnes of propellants loaded in two independent tanks. According to ISRO, development of a cryogenic stage has unique design challenges, with liquid Hydrogen stored at -253 deg C and liquid Oxygen stored at -195 deg C in its tanks.

The Cryogenic Stage development tests were carried out in two phases; first stage was subjected to fluid mock-up, wherein the stage preparation and servicing at launch complex in SDSC, SHAR, Shriharikota was completed to prove all the ground facilities established for servicing the cryogenic stage.

This was followed by testing of the Stage at ISRO Propulsion Complex, Mahendragiri. From the Stage realisation to completion of testing, the process was accomplished in four months.

The performance of the Stage during the hot test was as predicted, ISRO said, adding, successful hot test for flight duration qualifies the design of the stage and "robustness of the facilities conceived and established towards its development."

The flight cryogenic stage is in advanced stage of realisation and forms upper stage of GSLV MkIII, it added.

 

[Hindustani78]

http://www.deccanherald.com/content/597397/india-can-develop-space-station.html
India can develop space station, says ISRO chief
Indore, Feb 20, 2017, (PTI)

Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) chairman A S Kiran Kumar today said the country has the capability to develop a space station, but it needed a long-term approach and an ambitious planning.

His comment follows ISRO display of technological prowess last week by launching 104 satellites in a single mission. We have all the capabilities to set up a space station. The day the country takes the decision, we will 'ok' the project. Just draw a policy and provide us necessary funds and time," Kumar said here.

He was in the city to attend the foundation day ceremony of Raja Ramanna Center for Advanced Technology (RRCAT). "We still talk about what would be the immediate benefits of a manned space mission. That is why the country hasn't made up its mind about when to invest in a space station," he said.

A long-term thinking was needed for setting up a space station, he said, adding "the sooner the better." Kumar said ISRO was also mulling tying up with the industry to enhance the country's satellite launching capability.

Many more satellites were needed to keep a tab on the land and weather conditions and to enhance the communication network, he said. This would be possible with increase in the number of satellite launches, for which the country needed to enhance the basic infrastructure and reduce the cost of equipment, he added.

The number of companies manufacturing small satellites has gone up across the world, but these companies could not launch them, therefore this area had immense commercial potential and India could tap it by enhancing the launch facilities, the ISRO chief said.

http://indianexpress.com/article/in...to-hear-ex-scientists-plea-on-feb-24-4535064/
ISRO spy case: SC to hear ex-scientist’s plea on Feb 24
The apex court had in 1998 granted compensation of Rs one lakh to Narayanan and others who were discharged in the case and directed the state government to pay the amount.

By: PTI | New Delhi | Published:February 20, 2017 8:51 pm

The Supreme Court would on Friday hear the plea of a former ISRO scientist, discharged in an espionage case, seeking action against former DGP Siby Mathews and others who were part of SIT which had probed the matter. A bench comprising Justices Dipak Misra, A M Khanwilkar and M M Shantanagoudar posted the appeal, filed against the judgement of the division bench of the Kerala High Court, for hearing on February 24.

The High Court had said that no action was required to be taken against the former DGP and two retired Superintendents of Police, K K Joshua and S Vijayan, who were held responsible by CBI for his illegal arrest.

The 76-year-old former ISRO scientist Nambi Narayanan said the division bench of the high court had “failed to appreciate the real undercurrent that passed through the mind of the apex court, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and the single judge of the high court in their verdict and on untenable reasons, quashed the order of the single judge”.

The apex court had in 1998 granted compensation of Rs one lakh to Narayanan and others who were discharged in the case and directed the state government to pay the amount.

Later, Narayanan had approached NHRC claiming compensation against the state government for mental agony and torture suffered by him. The NHRC, after hearing both sides and taking into account the apex court judgement of April 29, 1998 awarded an interim compensation of Rs 10 lakh on March 14, 2001.

Challenging the legality of the high court’s division bench order, Narayanan said it was “bad in law” and sought interim stay contending that “the illegality in the judgement impugned, if allowed to perpetuate, would only encourage the unlawful action and mindset on the part of the Kerala police to harass innocent persons for extraneous considerations.

“And unless action as suggested by the CBI is immediately taken, (possibly under the provisions of Section 195 of the IPC if for any justifiable reason departmental action could not be taken), the innocent public would suffer at the hands of the Police.”

Narayanan said it was hence “appropriate that the impugned judgement of March 4, 2015 of the High Court of Kerala… is stayed and the State Government initiate action as deemed necessary during the pendency of this SLP.”

 

[protest]

Not within next 100 years, Haha, supa powa always use could, would, should. Simply put, you didn't, you couldn't and you wouldn't within next 100 years

And yes, we know of your insecurites. Now go get help.

 

[egodoc222]

Not within next 100 years, Haha, supa powa always use could, would, should. Simply put, you didn't, you couldn't and you wouldn't within next 100 years

@waz @Oscar

 

[Robinhood Pandey]

Not within next 100 years, Haha, supa powa always use could, would, should. Simply put, you didn't, you couldn't and you wouldn't within next 100 years

Now we know why are u a lonely man

 

[Hindustani78]

Prime Minister's Office
26-February, 2017 11:31 IST
English Translation of the text of PM’s ‘Mann ki Baat’ programme on All India Radio on 26.02.2017

Shobha Jalan has written to me on the NarendraModiApp that many in the public are not aware of the achievements of ISRO. And therefore she wants me to provide some information on the recent launch of 104 satellites and the Interceptor Missile. Shobha Ji, thank you very much for paying attention to this shining example of India’s pride. Whether it is eradicating poverty, preventing diseases, connecting with the world, or disseminating knowledge and information, technology and science have made a mark for themselves. 15th February, 2017 is a day of immense pride for India. Our scientists have brought laurels to the nation, witnessed by the whole world. And we know that over the last few years, ISRO has accomplished various unprecedented missions with flying colours. After the successful mission of sending Mangalyaan to planet Mars, recently ISRO scripted a world record in the arena of space. In a mega mission, ISRO has successfully launched 104 satellites simultaneously into space. These satellites belonged to various countries such as America, Israel, Kazakhstan, Netherlands, Switzerland, UAE and, of course, India. India has created history by becoming the first country to launch successfully 104 satellites into space at one go. And what is further heartening is the fact that this was PSLV’s 38th successive successful launch. This is a historic achievement for not just ISRO but for all of India. This cost effective, efficient space programme of ISRO has become a marvel for the entire world; the world has admired this success of Indian scientists of India whole-heartedly.

Brother & sisters, one out of these 104 satellites is extremely important. It is Cartosat 2D, which is India’s satellite and the pictures clicked through it will be of great help in mapping of resources and infrastructure, evaluating development and planning for urban development. Particularly for my farmer brothers and sisters, our new Satellite Cartosat 2D will be immensely helpful on a whole lot of subjects such as knowing how much water is there in our existing water sources, how this should be best put to use, what things to keep in mind in this regard. Almost immediately after its launch, our satellite has sent back some pictures. It has commenced functioning. It is also a matter of exultation for us that this entire campaign was led and steered by our young scientists, our women scientists. This tremendous participation of youth and women is a major glorious dimension in ISRO’s success. On behalf of our countrymen, I heartily congratulate the scientists at ISRO. Adhering consistently to the objective of bringing Space Science to the common man, for the service of the nation, they are creating one record after another. One runs short of words in complimenting and congratulating our scientists, their entire team.

 

[Hindustani78]

Karaikudi: Young scientists of Central Electrochemical Research Institute (CSIR- CECRI), Karaikudi have made a landmark achievement in the history of electrochemical research by developing the first indigenous lithium ion battery in the country.

 

[egodoc222]

Tentative for mk2 launch?