ISRO is becoming a synonym for doing the impossible. Today again, the space agency did something unimaginable. It launched not one or two or 20 or 40 satellites, but a 104! On a single rocket! In the process, it has set a world record that will likely remain unbeaten for a long time to come.
The workhorse PSLV-C37 rocket in the XL configuration lifted off the first launch pad at Sriharikota and hoisted the primary payload – Cartosat-2 satellite along with 103 nano satellites into orbit around the earth. While two of these were Indian nano satellites the other 101 belong to foreign customers, earning the country foreign exchange. Incidentally, this was the 38th consecutive successful launch of the PSLV rocket.
DOORDARSHANCustomers include Netherlands (PEASSS), Switzerland (DIDO-2), Israel (BGUSat), Kazakhstan (AL-Farabi-1), UAE (Nayif-1), USA (DOVE[Flock-3P] and LEMUR fleets).
ISRO’s own INS-1A and INS-1B satellites are technology demonstrators for low cost modular nano satellites that can be used for payloads by universities and R&D labs and provide a standard bus for launch on demand services.
ISRO, the nation is proud of you.