ISRO’s POEM-4 Deploys 10 Payloads for NGEs

Why in the news?

ISRO’s PSLV-C60 mission successfully deployed 10 payloads via the POEM-4 module. Facilitated by IN-SPACe, this initiative supports Indian startups, academics, and research organizations in testing space technologies, advancing private sector contributions to India’s space capabilities.

ISRO’s POEM-4 Deploys 10 Payloads for NGEs

About the Successful Deployment of Payloads:

  • ISRO successfully launched the PSLV-C60/Space Dock Experiment (SpaDeX) mission on December 30 ,2024 from Sriharikota.
  • The mission deployed 10 hosted payloads from non-government entities (NGEs) aboard the POEM-4 module.
  • The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) facilitated the operationalization of these payloads.

Promoting Private Sector Participation

  • IN-SPACe Chairman Pawan Goenka emphasized the role of the POEM platform in reducing barriers for private entities in the space sector.
  • By providing access to such platforms, IN-SPACe aims to foster collaborations and enhance the capabilities of India’s private sector in space technology.
  • Missions like SpaDeX are instrumental in qualifying payloads for future satellite launches and supporting capacity building in the space sector.
  • A total of 24 PS4 Orbital Experiment Module payloads were deployed during the PSLV-C60 mission, supporting diverse scientific and technological objectives.

About PSLV Orbital Experimental Module (POEM-4):

  • The mission involved in-orbit scientific experiments at an altitude of 350 km and a 55-degree inclination.
  • The repurposed fourth stage of the PSLV rocket served as the PSLV Orbital Experimental Module (POEM-4).
  • This innovative module enables Indian startups, academic institutions, and research organizations to test space technologies without requiring full satellite launches.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times