Preparations are on in top gear for the launch of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV- C17) from Sriharikota on July 15 between 4.48 p.m. and 5.08 p.m. The rocket will put into orbit communication satellite GSAT-12. Both the launch vehicle and the satellite were built by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). The satellite that weighs 1,410 kg has 12 extended C-band transponders.
Checks on
All the four stages of the launch vehicle have been stacked up in the gigantic Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB). The rocket is undergoing electrical checks. The satellite has reached Sriharikota and it has undergone necessary tests. On July 3, the satellite will be integrated with the rocket at the VAB after clearance from the Launch Authorisation Board. On July 10, the PSLV-C17, mated with the satellite, will be wheeled on its huge launch pedestal from the VAB to the second launch pad.
The 52.5-hour countdown for the launch will begin on July 13 after launch rehearsals are done and clearance is obtained from the Mission Readiness Review teams and the Launch Authorisation Board, says an ISRO release.
The PSLV-C17 will inject GSAT-12 into an elliptical transfer orbit (sub-geosynchronous transfer orbit) with a perigee of 284 km and an apogee of 21,000 km. Subsequently, commands will be given from ISRO's Master Control Facility at Hassan, Karnataka, for firing the liquid apogee motor on board the satellite to raise both its apogee and perigee to an altitude of 36,000 km and place it in a circular orbit.
