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The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is preparing for its ambitious PSLV-C60 mission, scheduled for a year-end launch. This mission is not simply about deploying satellites; it represents a significant leap forward in India's space exploration capabilities, focusing on diverse experiments designed to advance our understanding of space and pave the way for future space endeavors. Central to the mission is the PSLV Orbital Experiment Module (POEM), a unique platform that will host a remarkable array of 24 experiments, a testament to ISRO's commitment to pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge. These experiments span various domains, ranging from the intriguing realm of plant biology in microgravity to the crucial development of advanced robotic technologies and sustainable propulsion systems for future space missions.
One of the most captivating aspects of the PSLV-C60 mission is the focus on studying the growth of plants in the harsh environment of space. The Compact Research Module for Orbital Plant Studies (CROPS), developed by the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, will conduct an experiment involving the cultivation of eight cowpea seeds. This experiment will meticulously monitor the germination and growth of these seeds, tracing their development up to the two-leaf stage within a meticulously controlled closed-box environment. This closed-box system incorporates active thermal control, ensuring that the seeds are exposed to a stable and conducive environment that mirrors, as closely as possible, conditions optimal for growth. The success of this experiment will significantly enhance our understanding of plant behavior in microgravity, providing invaluable insights into how plants adapt to the absence of Earth's gravitational pull. Understanding the mechanisms involved in plant growth in space has significant implications for the possibility of supporting long-duration space missions and establishing self-sustaining habitats beyond Earth.
Complementing the CROPS experiment is the Amity Plant Experimental Module in Space (APEMS), developed by Amity University, Mumbai. This experiment will focus on observing the growth patterns of spinach in a microgravity setting. A notable aspect of this research is the parallel design of the experiment; it will be conducted simultaneously in space aboard POEM-4 and on the ground at the university. This parallel approach allows for a precise comparison between the growth patterns in microgravity and those under standard Earth-based conditions, enabling scientists to isolate the effects of microgravity on plant growth and development. By comparing the growth characteristics of spinach in both environments, researchers hope to gather insights into how higher plants perceive and respond to gravity and light, providing invaluable data for future space-based agriculture.
Beyond the botanical experiments, the PSLV-C60 mission will also push the boundaries of robotic technology in space. The Debris Capture Robotic Manipulator, developed by the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), will aim to demonstrate the ability of a robotic manipulator to capture tethered space debris. This experiment will utilize visual serving and object motion prediction capabilities, enabling the robotic arm to accurately locate and capture the debris. This technology is not just a scientific achievement; it's a critical step towards addressing the growing problem of space debris, which poses a significant risk to operational satellites and future space missions. The successful demonstration of this technology will pave the way for future missions that focus on actively removing space debris, thereby ensuring a safer and cleaner space environment. Furthermore, this manipulator is designed with future applications in mind, potentially capable of capturing free-floating debris and even refueling tethered and free-floating spacecraft in subsequent POEM missions.
Further demonstrating ISRO’s technological prowess is the inclusion of the Vyom-2U green propulsion thruster, developed by the Mumbai-based startup Manastu Space. This thruster utilizes a blend of hydrogen peroxide and proprietary additives as fuel, offering a significant improvement over traditional hydrazine-based systems. The advantages are twofold: enhanced safety and superior performance. Hydrazine is a highly toxic substance, posing significant safety risks during handling and storage. The Vyom-2U thruster offers a greener, safer alternative, reducing the environmental impact of space operations. Simultaneously, the improved performance of the Vyom-2U thruster translates to more efficient and reliable satellite propulsion, enabling more ambitious space missions and potentially reducing the overall cost of space travel.
Finally, the PSLV-C60 mission incorporates the Varuna payload, developed by Piersight Space in Ahmedabad. This payload demonstrates the capabilities of a Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) in a CubeSat form factor. The experiment signifies a critical first step toward establishing a constellation of SAR and Automatic Identification System (AIS) satellites. This constellation will provide persistent, near real-time monitoring of maritime activities, offering unparalleled insights into human and industrial activities at sea. The data gathered will contribute significantly to maritime safety, environmental monitoring, and resource management, highlighting the mission's broader societal impact.
In conclusion, ISRO's PSLV-C60 mission is a multifaceted undertaking representing a crucial step forward in space exploration and technological advancement. The diverse array of experiments, from studying plant growth in microgravity to developing cutting-edge robotic and propulsion systems, showcases India's growing capabilities in space research. The mission's success will have far-reaching implications, not only advancing our scientific understanding but also addressing critical challenges like space debris management and enhancing maritime surveillance capabilities. The PSLV-C60 mission stands as a testament to ISRO's commitment to innovation and its vision for a future where India plays a leading role in the exploration and responsible utilization of space.
Source: ISRO To Study How Crops Grow In Space On PSLV C60 Mission