Indian Space Research Organisation's (ISRO) workhorse, PSLV, on Sunday successfully launched Brazilian satellite Amazonia-1 along with 18 co-passenger satellites from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, 100 km from here.
Amazonia-1 is an optical earth observation satellite that will provide remote sensing data to users for monitoring deforestation in the Amazon region and analysis of diversified agriculture across the Brazilian territory. Weighing 637 kg, it is the first dedicated commercial mission of NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), a Government of India company under Department of Space.
PSLV-C51, carrying all 19 satellites, lifted off from the first launch pad of the Satish Dhawan Space Centre at 10.24 am. After a flight of about 17 minutes, the vehicle injected Amazonia-1 into its intended orbit and in the succeeding 1 hour 38 minutes, all the 18 co-passenger satellites successfully separated from the PSLV in a predetermined sequence.
One co-passenger satellite carried a picture of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while another had an e-copy of Bhagavad Gita on its SD card.
After the successful launch, ISRO chairman Dr K Sivan said it was a proud moment for India and its space agency to the first satellite designed, integrated and operated by Brazil.
"Today is a very great day for the entire ISRO team and the PSLV-C51 is a special mission for India. Let me congratulate and compliment the team ISRO for achieving the precise injection of AMAZONIA-1 and 18 other satellites," he said.
Of the 18 co-passenger satellites placed in the orbit, four are from ISRO's Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre and 14 from NSIL – 13 of these are from the US.
“Congratulations to NSIL and @isro on the success of the 1st dedicated commercial launch of PSLV-C51/Amazonia-1 Mission. This ushers in a new era of Space reforms in the country. 18 co-passengers included four small satellites that showcase dynamism and innovation of our youth,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted.
PSLV-C51 is the 53rd flight of PSLV and 3rd flight of PSLV in 'DL' configuration (with 2 strap-on motors). ISRO said this was the 78th launch vehicle mission from SDSC SHAR, Sriharikota.