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Satellite Launch Vehicles

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  • Key Points: Satellite Launch Vehicle
Maharashtra State Board: Class 10

Introduction to Space Launch Technology:

Space launch technology is the science and engineering used to send rockets, satellites, and spacecraft from Earth's surface into space. It involves the design, propulsion, staging, guidance, and payload deployment systems that allow a launch vehicle to overcome Earth's gravity.

A rocket is a special vehicle that generates powerful thrust using engines and fuel combustion. It carries a payload—which could be a satellite, a probe, or a spacecraft with astronauts—into orbit or deeper into space. After launch, the used-up parts of the rocket (stages) fall back to Earth.

India’s space agency, ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation), has developed several successful launch vehicles, including:

  • PSLV (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle): Used for launching satellites into polar orbits, including the Mars Orbiter Mission.
  • GSLV (Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle): Designed to carry heavier satellites into higher geosynchronous orbits.

Space launch technology is crucial for space exploration, planetary studies, satellite communication, and national space missions.

a. Structure of PSLV made by ISRO

b. Space shuttle

Maharashtra State Board: Class 10

Working of Launch Vehicles

A launch vehicle is a rocket system used to place satellites or spacecraft into specific orbits. It works based on Newton’s Third Law of Motion: For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.

Component Purpose Description Examples Remarks
Rocket Propulsion System Generate thrust to lift the rocket off the ground Burns fuel to produce hot gases expelled backward PSLV’s solid-fuel first stage Based on Newton’s Third Law
Multiple Stages Enhance efficiency by discarding used stages Most rockets have 2–4 stages, each with engine and fuel PSLV's four-stage structure Reduces vehicle weight as it ascends
Fuel and Propellant Provide the energy needed for propulsion Uses solid, liquid, or hybrid fuels like LH₂ and LOX GSLV uses solid and cryogenic liquid fuels Solid = more thrust; Liquid = better control
Guidance and Control Systems Steer and stabilize the rocket's path Includes sensors, software, and hardware for trajectory control Autopilot systems in PSLV and GSLV Essential for accurate orbit insertion
Payload and Payload Fairing Protect and deliver the satellite or spacecraft Encases the payload; fairing is jettisoned once in space Satellite enclosed in PSLV’s nose cone Payload is exposed only after exiting the atmosphere

Maharashtra State Board: Class 10

Key Points: Satellite Launch Vehicles

  • Satellite launch vehicles work on Newton’s third law—expelling gas creates thrust to lift the rocket.
  • Launch vehicles use multiple stages to reduce weight and increase speed as they rise.
  • Fuel type and structure of launch vehicles depend on the satellite’s weight and target orbit.
  • PSLV (by ISRO) is a multi-stage launch vehicle used to place satellites in orbit.
  • Unlike rockets, reusable space shuttles (such as NASA's) can return and be reused.
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