Question

Explain a satellite launch vehicle developed by ISRO with the help of a schematic diagram.

Answer 1

1. Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) designed by ISRO is shown in the figure below. This PSLV is a four-stage satellite launch vehicle. Each of these stages contains fuel that is burned, and each stage is detached from the vehicle after reaching a specific height. There is a place at the top of the fourth stage to keep the polar satellite to be launched.
2. Amongst the four stages, the first stage, along with six rocket booster engines, provides the initial thrust to the launcher. This stage contains solid fuel.
3. The second and fourth stages have liquid fuel, whereas the third stage works on solid fuel.
4. The second and third stages increase the velocity of the PSLV and help it attain the desired height. The fourth, i.e., the last stage, sets the satellite into its desired orbit.