Preparations for the forthcoming launch of Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C17) carrying India's communication satellite GSAT-12 are progressing well at Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota. The launch of PSLV-C17/GSAT-12 mission is targeted for July 15, 2011.

GSAT-12 Communication satellite with a mass of 1410 kg at lift-off, has 12 Extended C-band transponders. PSLV-C17 will inject GSAT-12 into an elliptical Transfer Orbit (Sub-GTO) of 284 km perigee and 21,000 km apogee. Subsequently, the Liquid Apogee Motor of the satellite will be used to raise both apogee and perigee of the Satellite to place it in a circular orbit of 36,000 km altitude.

All the four stages of the launch vehicle have been fully assembled at the Vehicle Assembly Building at Shriharikota. Presently, the vehicle is going through various levels of electrical checkout operations and reviews.

GSAT-12 satellite has already undergone necessary testing at Shriharikota before commencing the filling of propellants in the Satellite on June 28, 2011. On July 3, 2011, GSAT-12 Satellite is planned to be integrated with PSLV-C17 vehicle at the Vehicle Assembly Building, after clearance by the Launch Authorisation Board.

On July 10, 2011, PSLV-C17 Vehicle (with the GSAT-12 Satellite onboard) is planned to be moved from the Vehicle Assembly Building to the Second Launch Pad.

On July 13, 2011 the 52.5 hour Countdown for the launch is expected to commence after launch rehearsals, clearance from Mission Readiness Review Teams and Launch Authorisation Board.

The lift-off of PSLV-C17 from the second launch pad is scheduled on July 15, 2011 between 16:48 and 17:08 hrs.

Tweet

Related Links ISRO Rocket Science News at Space-Travel.Com