Background Context
The PSLV's development began in the late 1980s, driven by the need for India to achieve self-reliance in launching its own satellites, particularly for remote sensing. Prior to the PSLV, India relied on foreign launch services, which were both expensive and strategically limiting. The initial design aimed for a versatile vehicle capable of placing satellites into various orbits, including polar and geostationary transfer orbits. The first PSLV launch occurred in 1993, which was unsuccessful. However, subsequent launches proved the vehicle's capabilities, establishing it as a reliable and cost-effective option for both domestic and international customers. Over the years, the PSLV has undergone several upgrades, including increased payload capacity and improved accuracy, leading to different variants like the PSLV-C and PSLV-XL.
Practice MCQs
Question 1
Consider the following statements regarding the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV):
1. It is a four-stage launch vehicle with alternating solid and liquid propellant stages.
2. It can launch satellites into Geostationary Transfer Orbit (GTO).
3. It was entirely developed indigenously without any foreign assistance.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 only
- 2 and 3 only
- 1 and 3 only
- 1, 2 and 3
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct as PSLV has four stages with alternating solid and liquid propellants. Statement 2 is incorrect as PSLV is primarily used for launching satellites into polar orbits and Low Earth Orbits (LEO), not GTO. Statement 3 is incorrect as while largely indigenous, initial development involved some foreign technology transfer.
Question 2
In the context of ISRO's launch vehicle program, what is the primary objective of developing the Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV)?
- To launch heavier satellites into Geostationary Orbit (GEO).
- To provide a more cost-effective and reusable launch platform.
- To exclusively serve military satellite launch requirements.
- To replace the GSLV series of launch vehicles immediately.
Explanation: The primary objective of the NGLV is to develop a reusable launch vehicle that reduces launch costs and increases payload capacity, making space access more affordable and sustainable.
Question 3
Which of the following statements is NOT correct regarding the historical development of India's space program?
- The Indian National Committee for Space Research (INCOSPAR) was established in 1962.
- Aryabhata, India's first satellite, was launched indigenously using a PSLV.
- Vikram Sarabhai is considered the father of the Indian space program.
- The Space Commission and the Department of Space were established in 1972.
Explanation: Aryabhata was launched using a Soviet rocket, not the PSLV. The PSLV was developed much later. All other statements are correct.
Question 4
Assertion (A): Recurring issues with the third stage of the PSLV can significantly impact India's earth observation capabilities.
Reason (R): Many of India's crucial earth observation satellites rely on the PSLV for their launch.
- Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
- Both A and R are true, but R is NOT the correct explanation of A.
- A is true, but R is false.
- A is false, but R is true.
Explanation: The assertion and reason are both true, and the reason correctly explains why the recurring issues with the PSLV's third stage are a concern for India's earth observation capabilities.
Previous Year Questions
PYQ 1 - UPSC Prelims 2023 2023
Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV)?
1. It is a four-stage launch vehicle with alternating solid and liquid stages.
2. It is primarily used for launching satellites into geostationary orbits.
3. It has been consistently reliable, with no major failures in its history.
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct as PSLV is a four-stage vehicle with alternating solid and liquid stages. Statement 2 is incorrect as PSLV is primarily used for launching satellites into polar or low earth orbits. Statement 3 is incorrect as there have been some failures and anomalies, including recent third-stage issues.
PYQ 2 - UPSC Mains 2022 2022
Discuss the implications of recurring third-stage malfunctions in the PSLV for India's space program. What measures can ISRO take to address these issues and ensure the continued reliability of the PSLV?
PYQ 3 - SSC CGL 2023 2023
The PSLV is often referred to as the ______ of ISRO.
- (a) Space Shuttle
- (b) Workhorse
- (c) Pathfinder
- (d) Dream Machine
Explanation: The PSLV is widely known as the 'Workhorse' launch vehicle of ISRO due to its consistent performance and versatility.
PYQ 4 - SSC CHSL 2023 2023
Which stage of the PSLV has recently faced malfunctions?
- (a) First Stage
- (b) Second Stage
- (c) Third Stage
- (d) Fourth Stage
Explanation: The third stage of the PSLV has recently faced malfunctions, as highlighted in the news.
PYQ 5 - IBPS PO 2023 2023
What is the primary concern arising from the recent PSLV third-stage malfunctions?
- (a) Increased launch costs
- (b) Reduced satellite lifespan
- (c) Decreased payload capacity
- (d) Questions about PSLV reliability
Explanation: The primary concern is the potential impact on the reliability of the PSLV, which is crucial for future missions and investments.
PYQ 6 - SBI PO 2023 2023
Which organization is responsible for the PSLV?
- (a) DRDO
- (b) HAL
- (c) ISRO
- (d) BEL
Explanation: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is responsible for the PSLV.
PYQ 7 - CDS 2023 2023
The PSLV is primarily designed to launch satellites into which type of orbit?
- (a) Geostationary Orbit
- (b) Medium Earth Orbit
- (c) Highly Elliptical Orbit
- (d) Polar Orbit
Explanation: The PSLV is primarily designed to launch satellites into Polar Orbits and Low Earth Orbits.
PYQ 8 - CDS 2023 2023
What type of fuel is used in the third stage of PSLV?
- (a) Solid
- (b) Liquid
- (c) Cryogenic
- (d) Hybrid
Explanation: The third stage of PSLV uses solid fuel.