Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully launched two Singaporean Earth observation satellites, TeLEOS-2 and LUMELITE-4, into the intended orbit. The launch was conducted by the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle, PSLV-C55, from Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. The PSLV-C55 has demonstrated its reliability and suitability for commercial launch through its 57th flight towards the east direction. The inclination was very precise at 9.9 degrees, making it an ideal commercial mission.
Significance for Indian Space Startups
The launch was carried out through NSIL’s (NewSpace India Limited) dedicated commercial rocket that carried two Singapore satellites as the main payloads and seven non-separating payloads belonging to ISRO, Indian Institute of Astrophysics, and startups Bellatrix and Dhruva Space. This launch has a great significance for the Indian space startup ecosystem, as it showcases the country’s ability to carry out successful commercial missions of this class.
TeLEOS-2 and LUMELITE-4 Satellites
The TeLEOS-2 satellite, weighing about 741 kg, is developed under a partnership between DSTA (representing the Government of Singapore) and ST Engineering. Once operational, it will support the satellite imagery requirements of various agencies within the Government of Singapore. It carries a Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) payload and will be able to provide all-weather day and night coverage, imaging at 1m full-polarimetric resolution.
The LUMELITE-4 satellite, weighing 16 kg, is an advanced 12U satellite developed for the technological demonstration of the High-Performance Space-borne VHF Data Exchange System (VDES). It aims to augment Singapore’s e-navigation maritime safety and benefit the global shipping community.
PSLV Orbital Experimental Module (POEM)
The mission has the PSLV Orbital Experimental Module (POEM), where the spent PS4 stage of the launch vehicle would be utilized as an orbital platform to carry out scientific experiments through non-separating payloads. The payloads belong to ISRO/Department of Space, Bellatrix, Dhruva Space, and Indian Institute of Astrophysics.
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