PSLV-C4

PSLV-C4 refers to the fourth operational launch of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) conducted by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Launched on September 26, 1999, from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR, Sriharikota, India, its primary payload was the Oceansat-1 (IRS-P4) satellite.

Oceansat-1 was an Indian remote sensing satellite designed for ocean observation and research. Its objectives included studying ocean surface parameters, monitoring sea surface temperature, wind vector data, and chlorophyll concentration. It carried an Ocean Colour Monitor (OCM) and a Multi-frequency Scanning Microwave Radiometer (MSMR).

In addition to Oceansat-1, PSLV-C4 also carried two secondary payloads: KITSAT-3, a South Korean satellite, and DLR-TUBSAT, a German satellite. These satellites were technology demonstrators, contributing to international cooperation in space research.

The PSLV-C4 mission was considered a success, successfully placing all three satellites into their intended orbits. This mission further solidified PSLV's reputation as a reliable and versatile launch vehicle for deploying various types of satellites into low Earth orbits. The data obtained from Oceansat-1 significantly advanced oceanographic research and environmental monitoring capabilities. The successful deployment of foreign satellites also highlighted ISRO's growing role as a provider of cost-effective launch services on the global stage.