IRNSS-1H navigation satellite launch unsuccessful
The Aug. 31 launch of a new Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS) satellite failed when the protective fairing did not separate.
Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) chairman AS Kiran Kumar confirmed that the mission to launch India’s eighth navigation satellite, IRNSS-1H, from the second launch pad at the spaceport of Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, was unsuccessful.
The 1425-kg satellite was expected to expand the existing seven satellites of the NavIC constellation. The launch vehicle PSLV-C39 lifted the satellite on Aug. 31 using the XL variant, of PSLV equipped with six strap-ons, each carrying 12 tons of propellant.
The three phases of the launch went smoothly, but unfortunately, the heat shield which was supposed to be separated in the fourth stage could not be detached.
IRNSS-1H was planned as a replacement satellite for IRNSS-1A.
About the Author: Tracy Cozzens
Senior Editor Tracy Cozzens joined GPS World magazine in 2006. She also is editor of GPS World’s newsletters and the sister website Geospatial Solutions. She has worked in government, for non-profits, and in corporate communications, editing a variety of publications for audiences ranging from federal government contractors to teachers.
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