Isro Successfully Tests Upgraded PSLV Third Stage After Mission Setbacks
The Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) has successfully conducted a ground static test of the upgraded third stage of its Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), following anomalies during two previous missions.
Nellore: Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) on Thursday successfully conducted a ground static test of the upgraded third stage (PS3) of its Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) at the Static Test Facility of the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC-SHAR), Sriharikota.
The test follows anomalies observed in the third stage during the PSLV-C61/EOS-09 and PSLV-C62/EOS-N1 missions.
These prompted Isro to undertake a comprehensive review of the stage’s design, manufacturing and quality-control processes.
As part of the corrective measures, Isro strengthened the PS3 configuration by improving design margins, modifying the nozzle configuration and reinforcing mechanical interfaces.
Redundancy was also incorporated into the sealing systems to improve reliability.
The space agency tightened raw material acceptance criteria, revised assembly procedures and introduced additional quality checks.
Updated non-destructive testing (NDT) procedures were also implemented at various stages of integration and transportation.
Following these modifications, a new version of the PS3 solid motor stage was developed and successfully subjected to the ground static test.
Isro said the test data would undergo detailed analysis and review before further tests are taken up.