ISRO: The Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) launched the X-ray Polarimeter Satellite (XPoSat), its first dedicated polarimetry mission, on Monday, marking a significant advancement in our understanding of the universe. The PSLV was prepared on the pad for the launch of its 60th mission when it took off at 9:10 a.m. from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.
Turning Point in Space Exploration
Isro is at a turning point with the XPoSat mission, which explores the dynamics of bright astronomical X-ray sources in harsh environments. POLIX and XSPECT, two scientific payloads on board the spacecraft, are intended to operate in low Earth orbit. The purpose of these instruments is to offer fresh perspectives on the emission processes of different celestial objects such as active galactic nuclei, neutron stars, and black holes.
A Collaboration of Scientific Prowess
The main payload, called POLIX, was created by the Raman Research Institute and the U R Rao Satellite Centre together. Its purpose is to measure the angle and degree of polarisation in the medium X-ray energy range. During the course of its intended 5-year mission, this payload is expected to observe approximately 40 bright astronomical sources, making it a ground-breaking experiment in medium X-ray energy band polarimetry.
Elevating Soft X-ray Exploration
The XSPECT payload will provide high spectroscopic resolution in soft X-rays and fast timing, complementing POLIX. The goal of XSPECT is to simultaneously monitor soft X-ray emissions and spectral state changes over an extended period of time. In addition to delivering the primary payload, XPoSat, on its 60th mission, the PSLV-C58 rocket will also launch ten additional satellites into low-Earth orbit. This mission demonstrates Isro’s dedication to furthering space exploration and enhancing our understanding of the universe’s intricate physical processes on a global scale.
Commercial Space Endeavors
Several commercial space companies have experiment satellites deployed on the PSLV Orbital Experimental Module, Poem. The launch vehicle’s fourth stage, Poem, is spent and will be used as an orbital platform for non-separating payload science experiments.
Keep watching our YouTube Channel ‘DNP INDIA’. Also, please subscribe and follow us on FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM, and TWITTER