PSLV-C-12 geared up for Monday takeoff; to put two satellites in orbit

Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C-12)With the 48-hour countdown for the takeoff of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C-12) having begun at 6.45 a. m. on Saturday, the vehicle carrying two satellites is all geared up to rocket into the sky at 6.45 a. m. on Monday, from Andhra Pradesh's Sriharikota spaceport.

The two satellites that the PSLV will put in orbit include a radar imaging satellite called RISAT-2, and a 38-kg investigational mini communication satellite - Anusat - built by Anna University, Chennai.

Regarding the progress with regard to the launch of PSLV, S Satish, the spokesman for ISRO - Indian Space Research Organisation - said: "Everything is proceeding smoothly." He added that filling the fourth stage of the vehicle with liquid propellants was on track.

About the two satellites, Satish said that the 300 kg, remote-sensing RISAT-2 would improve India's competence in the management of disasters like floods, cyclones and landslips. The mini-satellite, Anusat, would enable the Anna University students to better understanding the intricacies of the intimidating environment in which a satellite functions. While RISAT has a three-year life-span; Anusat will last one year.

Going by the information received from ISRO officials, the space agency has decided against the proposed launch's conventional live telecast, which generally comes with by a commentary by Doordarshan and other TV channels!

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