The failure of the EOS-09 mission has left the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to establish a high-level Failure Analysis Committee (FAC). The committee will probe the anomaly that caused the interruption of the PSLV-C61 launch.
The rocket failed on its third stage of flight. ISRO has certified that the problem hindered the satellite from achieving the target orbit. The FAC will be composed of ISRO’s senior scientists and academics. Their intention is to determine the cause and suggest remedies for future expeditions.
Anomaly Detected in the Third Stage
ISRO chairman V Narayanan confirmed that the anomaly occurred in the third stage of the PSLV-C61 mission. This third stage relies on a solid rocket motor that supplies powerful thrust once the rocket is outside the atmosphere. It produces a maximum 240 kilonewtons of thrust.
But this crucial phase witnessed a technical problem, which brought the mission to a standstill. Consequently, the satellite could not be inserted into the intended orbit.
Committee to Investigate Each Phase of the Launch
The Failure Analysis Committee will investigate the whole launch process. It will analyze all the steps — from countdown and preparations to the third-stage failure. A former ISRO chairman or a retired senior scientist usually heads such an inquiry.
The committee will study the flight data in depth. ISRO is hoping that the panel will pinpoint what went wrong and provide practical solutions.
PSLV-C61 Launch Sequence and Planned Orbit
The PSLV-C61 launch commenced with the firing of the PS1 stage and six PSOM boosters. This followed with the release of each rocket stage. The ultimate objective was to position the EOS-09 satellite in a Sun Synchronous Polar Orbit (SSPO). The strategy also involved employing Orbit Change Thrusters (OCT) to decrease the altitude of the PS4 stage. This would contribute to passivation — a move to prevent space debris and have safe space operations.
ISRO’s EOS-09 mission was its 101st mission. Its failure is an unusual failure for the agency. But with the establishment of the expert committee, ISRO will rectify the error and proceed confidently. After the FAC finishes its analysis, ISRO will come up with more details.
