ISRO Successfully Tests Modified PSLV Third Stage Following Recent Mission Setbacks

Why in the News?

The Indian Space Research Organisation (**ISRO**) has achieved a major technological milestone by successfully completing the ground static test of the modified third stage of its workhorse rocket, the **Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV)**, at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.

Key Features / Major Points:

- Context of the Test:

- The rigorous test comes in the wake of technical anomalies encountered during the third stage of two consecutive missions: **PSLV-C61/EOS-09** in May 2025 and **PSLV-C62/EOS-N1** in January 2026.

- Comprehensive Technical Upgrades:

- To fortify system resilience, extensive reviews of design margins, raw material standards, assembly protocols, and testing frameworks were conducted.

- Upgrades include an enhanced nozzle configuration, reinforced mechanical interfaces, and added redundancy in sealing mechanisms to prevent pressure loss.

- Advanced non-destructive testing (NDT) procedures were integrated across raw material acceptance, motor assembly, integration, and transportation phases.

- Expert Oversight:

- The modifications were implemented based on exhaustive recommendations put forward by a national-level expert committee formed following the earlier mission setbacks.

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Static GK Facts:

- ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation):

- Established: **August 15, 1969** | Headquarters: **Bengaluru, Karnataka**.

- Current Chairman & Secretary (Department of Space): **Dr. V. Narayanan** (assumed office on January 14, 2025, succeeding S. Somanath).

- Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC):

- Located in **Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh**, serving as India's primary orbital launch facility.

One-Liner Quiz (All Competitive Exams):

Q: Which space agency successfully conducted a ground static test on the modified third stage of the PSLV rocket?

A: ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation)

Q: Where is the Satish Dhawan Space Centre located?

A: Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh

Q: Who is the current Chairman of ISRO?

A: Dr. V. Narayanan

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