- ISRO launched X-ray Polarimeter Satellite (XPoSat) on January 1, 2024, aboard Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle PSLV-C58 from Sriharikota.
- This marks India’s first dedicated scientific effort to study the polarization of cosmic X-rays from celestial sources.
- PSLV-C58 also launched ten other scientific payloads along with XPoSat.
- The launch involved PSLV-DL, placing XPoSat and other payloads in orbit at an altitude of about 650 km.
- Objectives include measuring polarization of X-rays in a specific energy band, conducting long-term spectral and temporal studies of cosmic X-ray sources, and measuring X-ray emissions from cosmic sources in specific payloads.
- After orbiting XPoSat at 650 km, the rocket’s fourth stage will be lowered to 350 km through two restarts, creating a 9.6-degree orbit.
- The leftover propellant in the PS4 will be disposed of through main engines, contributing to the safety of PS4 stage in planned atmosphere re-entry experiments in the future.
Q: What is the primary objective of the X-ray Polarimeter Satellite (XPoSat) launched by ISRO?
a. Studying atmospheric conditions
b. Analyzing polarisation of cosmic X-rays
c. Monitoring space debris
d. Examining lunar surface features
Ans : b. Analyzing polarisation of cosmic X-rays
