ISRO Readies To Test-fly GSLV-Mark III On December 18

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ISRO Readies To Test-fly GSLV-Mark III On December 18
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The Indian Space Research Organization’s latest generation launch vehicle Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mark III (GSLV Mk-III), which is scheduled to be launched in on December 18, 2014, has successfully completed the 9 hours and 30 minutes launch rehearsal today. The rehearsal was done from Satish Dhawan Space Centre SHAR, Sriharikota.

The ISRO said on its Facebook page: “All the data would be checked for one last time in the Mission Readiness Review planned on Dec 16. Launch, as we said, is planned on December 18.”

GSLV Mk III is conceived and designed to make ISRO completely self-reliant in launching heavier communication satellites of INSAT-4 class, which weigh 4500 to 5000 kg. It would also envisage multi-mission launch capability for GTO, LEO, Polar and intermediate circular orbits.

The first experimental suborbital flight of the GSLV Mk-III will carry solid boosters (S200s), liquid core stage (L110) and a passive cryogenic stage (C25).

As per the ISRO’s official Facebook page, the primary objective of this sub-orbital flight is to validate the complex atmospheric ascent regime of this all new launcher, especially the aerodynamic and control features that cannot be conclusively tested on ground.
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In this experimental flight, the GSLV Mk-III would climb up to an altitude of nearly 125 km. To reap benefits out of this opportunity, a CARE (Crew-module Atmospheric Re-entry Experiment) Module is planned to be injected at this great height.

“The module has been realized to validate a number of technologies developed under ISRO’s Critical Technologies for Human Spaceflight Programme,” the Indian space agency added. It has also planned to recover this module from the Bay of Bengal after the splash down.

With this new vehicle, ISRO aims to boost India’s capability to be a competitive player in the multi-million dollar commercial launch market.
(Image: ISRO's Facebook page)