Godrej & Boyce, the flagship company of the Godrej Group, today announced that its business entity Godrej Aerospace, partnered with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in the successful launch of the CMS – 01 communications satellite using the PSLV – C50. The CMS – 01 launch was the 52nd mission of PSLV from Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) at SHAR, Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh.
The CMS – 01 is the 42nd communication satellite of India and replaces the GSAT – 12R, which was launched in the year 2011. Satellites needs replacement too and India regularly launches new satellites to enhance its capability, capacity and wider reach. Old satellites are then destroyed in the space and India has the capability to both hack and destroy enemy satellites in the space, which creates debris.
The PSLV-C50 lifted off from the 2nd launch pad of SDSC SHAR carrying CMS-01 and after a flight of about 20 minutes 12 seconds, the vehicle injected the satellite into its intended orbit as planned. After injection, the solar panels of CMS-01 were automatically deployed and ISRO’s Master Control Facility at Hassan assumed the control of the satellite. In the coming days, orbit raising manoeuvers will be executed to position the satellite in the Geostationary Orbit at its designated location.
PSLV-C50 is the flight of PSLV and 22nd flight of PSLV in ‘XL’ configuration (with 6 strap-on motors). This was the 77th launch vehicle mission from SDSC SHAR, Sriharikota.
The CMS-01 is envisaged to provide services in the Extended-C Band of the frequency spectrum. The Extended-C Band coverage will include Indian mainland, from Ladhak to Kanya Kumari, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and the Lakshadweep Islands till the Indira Point.
“Godrej Aerospace played a key role by manufacturing the Vikas contour engine used to propel for the second stage of the rocket and satellite thrusters.” “It gives us immense pride to be associated with ISRO for yet another successful launch. We are proud manufacturers of the Vikas contour engine and the satellite thrusters and are glad to have contributed the same for this launch.” Godrej Aerospace executive vice president and business head Surendra M. Vaidya said.
“At Godrej, we are proudly committed to the cause of driving indigenous manufacturing for India’s space programmes, which are key to propel India’s technological prowess on the global stage. We look forward to enhancing our participation for ISRO’s future endeavours.”
Godrej Aerospace has been partnering with ISRO for over 30 years to manufacture complex systems such as the liquid propulsion engines for PSLV and GSLV rockets, thrusters for satellites, and antenna systems.
Godrej Aerospace has also played an integral part in the Chandrayaan and Mangalyaan missions to the Moon and Mars, respectively.
Godrej & Boyce, a Godrej Group company, was founded in 1897, and has contributed to India’s journey of self-reliance through manufacturing. G&B patented the world’s first spring less lock and since then, has diversified into 14 businesses across various sectors from Security, Furniture, Aerospace to Infrastructure and Defence.
Private sector is gearing to meet a large part of India’s defence requirements besides exports.