Source: TH
Context:
On 10 September 2025, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) signed a formal agreement with Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. (HAL) to transfer technology for the production of Small Satellite Launch Vehicles (SSLVs). The deal marks a major milestone in industry participation in India’s space sector.
About Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV):
- What it is:
- A 3-stage, cost-effective launch vehicle designed to deploy small satellites
- Equipped with three solid propulsion stages and a liquid-based Velocity Trimming Module (VTM) for final orbital adjustments
- Developed by ISRO
- Objective:
- Meet growing global demand for small satellite launches
- Provide low-cost, quick-turnaround, launch-on-demand capability with minimal infrastructure
- Specifications:
- Size: ~2 meters wide, 34 meters tall (≈11-storey building)
- Engines & Propulsion:
- First Stage: Solid fuel
- Second Stage: Solid fuel
- Third Stage: Solid fuel
- VTM: Small liquid-fuel engines (MMH + MON-3) with 16 thrusters for precise orbit placement
