A small Indian satellite launch vehicle that was made in three days by a handful of people at about 10% of current costs looks set to revolutionise the global satellite launch industry.
The SSLV (small satellite launch vehicle) is being developed at a furious pace at ISRO’s Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre. The SSLV will be an on-demand rocket for small satellites weighing about 500-700 kg. It will be autonomous and highly intelligent, versatile and capable of adapting to different launch situations and requirements.
Its first test launch is planned for mid-2019. Once proven, the SSLV’s production would be offered to industry through Antrix Corporation, according to ISRO Chairman K. Sivan.
The SSLV is said to be Dr. Sivan’s dream concept for a quick-response space vehicle, and the project was initiated when he was the Director of the VSSC until January this year.
