Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) Technology Transfer Agreement

Why in News ?

• The agreement was signed between NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for transfer of SSLV technology.
• It aims to increase the share in the fast growing global market of small satellite launch.

Significance:

• According to ISRO, this agreement is an important milestone towards reforms in the country's space sector.
• It will pave the way for commercialisation of SSLV.
• Successful deployment will strengthen the Indian space ecosystem and meet domestic and international demand for small satellite launch services.

Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV)

• SSLV is a light and small satellite launch vehicle developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
• Its main objective is to put small satellites (Small Satellites / Microsatellites / CubeSats) into space at low cost.’SSLV is designed to facilitate rapid launch.
• Mains features:
  

• This vehicle can be launched from Sriharikota for inclined orbits and from the upcoming launch site of Kulasekharapattinam for polar orbits.

Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO):

• ISRO was established on 15 August 1969 under the leadership of Dr. Vikram Sarabhai.
• Its headquarter is located in Bengaluru, Karnataka.
• The objective of ISRO is to promote development in India through space research and satellite launch.
• ISRO launched India's first satellite Aryabhata in 1975.