Sriharikota: In a first in which the fourth stage of the India’s workshorse launch vehicle PSLV would remain in space for experiment, without burning out, ISRO in its first mission of the new year, launched the 700 kg imaging satellite Microsat-R, meant for Defence Research Development Organisation (DRDO) and Kalamsat from the First Launch Pad of Satish Dhawan Space Centre SHAR Range here.
After a perfect countdown during which propellant filling operations were carried out, the rocket lifted off majestically and soared, lighting up the night sikes by belching orange fumes, with a rumble that shook the earth.
Scientists at the Mission control centre were watching the course of the flight with bated breath as for the third time, the fourth stage of the engine would be switched off and again switched on to place the satellites in two different orbits. The vehicle was assembled in a record time of
nearly a month as against the longer time.