PSLV-C35

PSLV-C35 was an Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) mission utilizing the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) to launch eight satellites into two different orbits. The mission was launched on September 26, 2016, from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, India.

The primary payload was SCATSAT-1, a scatterometer satellite designed to provide weather forecasting, cyclone detection and tracking services. SCATSAT-1 was placed into a polar orbit.

The secondary payloads included seven other satellites, specifically three from India, one from Algeria, one from Canada, and two from the United States. These were co-passenger satellites meant to be placed in a different, lower orbit than SCATSAT-1.

A key objective of the PSLV-C35 mission was its ability to place satellites into two distinct orbits. This was achieved by performing two engine start-stop operations of the PSLV's fourth stage (PS4). After injecting SCATSAT-1 into its intended orbit, the PS4 was restarted to lower its orbit and deploy the remaining seven satellites. This demonstrated ISRO's capability to perform multi-orbit launch missions, enhancing the versatility and cost-effectiveness of the PSLV.

The mission was declared a success by ISRO, marking a significant milestone in India's space program.