Bengaluru: The Indian Space and Research Organisation (ISRO) is all set to launch five British satellites at one go on Friday, in what is being billed as its biggest commercial launch so far.
The countdown has begun at the Sriharikota launch pad for the PSLV rocket, which will carry five satellites - load of over 1440 kg - for the UK. Three of these satellites are earth observations satellites while the other two are technology demonstrators.
The observation satellites are primarily to be used for imaging and monitoring resources and environment, besides disaster management efforts. The launch is scheduled for 9.58 pm.
Since 1999 India till date has launched 40 satellites of other countries and the successful launch of the five British satellites would take the tally to 45.
The 44.4 metre tall and weighing 320 tonne the PSLV is a four stage/engine rocket with six strap on motors for addition thrust during the initial phase of the flight.
The first and third stages are powered by solid fuel and are cast ready while the second and fourth stages are powered by liquid fuel which will be filled during the countdown.
Apart from fuelling up the engines, all the systems would be checked and rechecked during the countdown.
According to ISRO, this is the heaviest commercial luggage carried by a PSLV rocket till date.
(With IANS Inputs)
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