India successfully launched the X-ray Polarimeter Satellite (XPoSat) on January 1, 2024, at 09:10 am IST from the Satish Dhawan Space Center in Sriharikota. This mission marks India’s maiden venture into polarimetry, a specialized technique for studying the polarization of X-rays, and positions the country as a key player in cutting-edge space research.
Mission Objectives and Payloads
XPoSat, equipped with two crucial payloads named Pollux and Expect, is dedicated to studying black holes and neutron stars through the analysis of X-rays. These celestial bodies emit X-rays that carry valuable information about their characteristics and behavior. The Pollux and Expect payloads will play a pivotal role in unraveling the mysteries surrounding these cosmic phenomena.
Pollux Payload: Primarily focused on black hole study, the Pollux payload will capture and analyze X-rays emitted by black holes, enabling scientists to understand their structure, dynamics, and the surrounding environment.
Expect Payload: Tailored for neutron star study, the Expect payload will facilitate the examination of X-rays emitted by neutron stars. This will contribute to a deeper understanding of these dense celestial objects and the physical processes occurring within them.
Orbital Placement and Technical Details
Following a flawless launch, XPoSat, along with its payloads, was placed in an orbit approximately 650 kilometers above the Earth’s surface. This orbital positioning is conducive to conducting precise observations and measurements.
One notable aspect of the mission is its deployment of a polarimetry technique, a methodology that measures the polarization of X-rays. This technique is instrumental in obtaining detailed insights into the nature of high-energy astronomical sources.
India’s First Polarimetry Mission
XPoSat is not only India’s maiden venture into polarimetry but also the world’s second polarimetry mission after NASA’s Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer (IXPE), launched in 2021. The successful execution of this mission underscores India’s growing prowess in space technology and its commitment to advancing scientific exploration beyond Earth’s atmosphere.
In addition to the primary payloads from XPoSat, the launch carried payloads from various entities, including space tech startups Dhruv Space, Bellatrix Aerospace, and TM2Space. This collaborative approach signifies the integration of cutting-edge technologies from diverse sources, fostering innovation and advancements in the space sector.
PSLV Orbital Experiment Module
After placing XPoSat in its designated orbit, the fourth stage of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) rocket was brought into an orbit 350 kilometers above Earth’s surface. This stage will serve as the PSLV Orbital Experiment Module, demonstrating India’s commitment to sustainable space practices. By bringing the fourth stage into a lower orbit, it is expected to naturally degrade over time, minimizing space debris.
Outlook for 2024
The successful launch of XPoSat sets the stage for an ambitious year of space exploration for the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). ISRO Chairman S Somnath highlighted that 2024 would be the year of Gaganyaan, India’s human spaceflight program. The year is anticipated to witness two test flights for Gaganyaan, followed by an unmanned mission. Additionally, various other space missions are slated for the year, contributing to India’s growing prominence in the global space arena.
In conclusion, the launch of XPoSat represents a significant milestone in India’s space journey, showcasing its capabilities in conducting complex scientific missions. The insights gathered from this mission are expected to deepen our understanding of black holes and neutron stars, contributing valuable knowledge to the global astronomical community. The success of XPoSat reaffirms India’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of space exploration and scientific discovery.