ASLV

The Augmented Satellite Launch Vehicle (ASLV) Programme was designed to enhance the payload capacity of a 150 kg satellite, thrice that of SLV3, into Low Earth Orbits (LEO). This launch vehicle was developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). With the long-term goal of realizing polar and geosynchronous launch, an ASLV was developed to act as a low-cost intermediate vehicle for demonstrating critical technologies.

The ASLV can have advanced propulsion systems, which can increase payload capacity. Because of that, satellites can be launched into orbit in a single mission, reducing the need for multiple launches. Click here for more information.

ASLV has some stages that include:

  • ASLV Strap-on (AS-0)
  • ASLV Stage 1 (AS-1)
  • ASLV Stage 2 (AS-2)
  • ASLV Stage 3 (AS-3)
  • ASLV Stage 4 (AS-4)

Achievements & Failure:

Total number of launches = 4 (failures = 2, partial failure = 1, success = 1).

ASLV-D1:

  • Date: 24 March 1987
  • Launched From: Satish Dhawan Space Centre – SDSC, Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. 
  • Payload: 150 Kg
  • Result: Failure

Reason: The core AS-1 stage did not ignite. There was a loose connection or a random failure.

ASLV-D2:

  • Date: 13 July 1988
  • Launched From: Satish Dhawan Space Centre – SDSC, Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. 
  • Payload: 150 Kg
  • Result: Failure.

Reason: AS-1 stage ignited after 49.8 sec instead of 49.5 sec. It was determined that wind shear prevented the control systems from converging the guidance, and the upper stages broke away.

ASLV-D3:

  • Date: 20 May 1992
  • Launched From: Satish Dhawan Space Centre – SDSC, Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. 
  • Payload: 106 Kg
  • Result: Partial Failure.

Reason: Low perigee (the point in the orbit of the moon or a satellite at which it is nearest to the earth.) resulted in rapid orbit decay; it re-entered the atmosphere on 14 July 1992. The payload achieved orbit, but AS-4 did not fully spin up, resulting in a low perigee.

ASLV-D4:

  • Date: 04 May 1994
  • Launched From: Satish Dhawan Space Centre – SDSC, Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. 
  • Payload: 113 Kg
  • Result: Successful launch.
  • ASLV proved to be a low-cost intermediate vehicle to demonstrate the technologies that would be needed for future launch vehicles.

“JAI HIND”