NexDigitalWave: ISRO’s PSLV-C58 Launch Successfully Deploys XpoSat in Orbit

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) welcomed the new year with a momentous achievement on January 1, marking the successful launch of its first rocket of 2024. The Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C58) carried XpoSat, a pioneering scientific satellite, into orbit. XpoSat, short for X-ray Polarimeter Satellite, is a groundbreaking mission aimed at studying the polarization of X-rays emitted by celestial bodies like black holes, neutron stars, and pulsars.

Unveiling XpoSat’s Mission

XpoSat represents India’s inaugural dedicated mission for analyzing the polarization of X-rays from diverse cosmic sources. The property of light known as polarization, describing the orientation of its electric field, will be studied to unveil the physical processes and conditions of these cosmic emitters.

Weighing 210 kg, XpoSat features POLIX (Polarimeter Instrument in X-rays), a payload equipped with 64 detectors arranged in an 8×8 array. With the ability to detect X-rays in the 5 to 30 keV energy range, POLIX ensures precise measurements of their polarization.

XpoSat is slated for a mission life of five years during which it will observe over 40 cosmic sources, contributing to various scientific objectives such as:

• Testing the general theory of relativity near black holes by measuring X-ray polarization
• Probing magnetic fields and emission mechanisms of neutron stars and pulsars
• Studying the origin and evolution of cosmic magnetic fields and plasma turbulence
• Investigating physics of shock waves and particle acceleration in supernova remnants
• Exploring the nature and diversity of gamma-ray bursts and their afterglows

The Launch Journey

ISRO’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), a reliable workhorse, propelled XpoSat into space in its 60th mission. The launch took place at 9:10 am from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, resulting in the deployment of XpoSat into a circular orbit of 600 km altitude with an inclination of 67.5 degrees.

The entire process unfolded flawlessly, with the satellite’s health deemed normal. ISRO Chairman S Somnath applauded the team’s success and hinted at a promising future with 2024 being a “Gaganyaan year,” referencing India’s ambitious human spaceflight program². Prime Minister Narendra Modi also extended congratulations, emphasizing the significant leap in India’s space exploration capabilities.

XpoSat’s Significance

XpoSat’s uniqueness lies in its role as the world’s first satellite dedicated to conducting a comprehensive survey of X-ray polarization from various cosmic sources⁴. This groundbreaking mission will contribute valuable insights into the nature and origin of exotic celestial objects, as well as test fundamental theories of physics. XpoSat will play a crucial role in global multi-wavelength and multi-messenger astronomy efforts, complementing observations from other telescopes and detectors.

Beyond its scientific contributions, XpoSat serves as a testament to India’s scientific and technological prowess. It not only enhances India’s reputation as a space-faring nation but also inspires the next generation of scientists and engineers to explore the realms of space science.

About NexDigitalWave

NexDigitalWave is your go-to source for the latest developments in space exploration, technology, and science. We strive to bring you informative and engaging content that sparks curiosity and keeps you informed about the wonders of the universe. Stay tuned for more updates on groundbreaking missions, scientific discoveries, and the future of space exploration.