What does two PSLV mission failures in a row mean for ISRO?
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Space technology (ISRO, missions)· Prelims + Mains·
Why in news
ISRO grounded all PSLV launches for eight months following two consecutive mission failures (PSLV-C61 and PSLV-C62) due to third-stage anomalies.
Background
The PSLV-C62 mission failed because the third stage suffered an unexpected drop in chamber pressure, leading to a loss of thrust. The Failure Analysis Committee (FAC) identified a potential structural or material failure in the PS3 solid motor nozzle or casing system.
Facts for Prelims
- S&TPSLV-C62: The second consecutive PSLV mission failure involving a third-stage chamber pressure drop.
- S&TPS3 solid motor: The specific component identified by the FAC as having a potential structural or material failure.
- FactISRO grounded all PSLV launches for a period of eight months to implement quality control measures.
- PostPMO: The body currently withholding the FAC report due to concerns over sensitive military data.
For Mains
Q. Analyze the challenges in maintaining high-reliability standards in space technology and the implications of balancing transparency with national security in aerospace research.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Technical bottleneck: Material fatigue and structural integrity issues in solid motor nozzle systems
- Security-Transparency trade-off: Conflict between public accountability and protection of classified satellite deployment data
- Quality assurance: Need for rigorous stress-testing protocols to prevent consecutive mission anomalies
Keywords: Failure Analysis · Structural Integrity · Quality Control · National Security · Space Technology · Reliability
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