Which of the following statements about the PSLV Orbital Experimental Module (POEM) is correct?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
Solution: The correct answer is POEM utilizes the spent PS4 stage of the PSLV as an orbital platform to host payloads, thereby enhancing mission utility without launching a new satellite bus.
Explanation:
☛ POEM stands for PSLV Orbital Experimental Module, developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
☛ In standard space missions, the spent fourth stage (PS4) of a PSLV becomes space debris after injecting the primary satellites into orbit.
☛ POEM repurposes this spent PS4 stage as a stabilized, cost-effective in-orbit experimental platform to host non-separated scientific and commercial payloads.
☛ It is equipped with dedicated solar panels wrapped around the propellant tank, a Lithium-ion battery, and a dedicated Avionics system.
☛ The module maintains 3-axis stabilization using cold gas thrusters, star sensors, and gyroscopes to ensure a steady platform for scientific experiments.
☛ ISRO first demonstrated the operational POEM platform during the PSLV-C53 mission launched on 30 June 2022.
Extra Exam-Relevant Facts:
☛ PSLV Configuration: PSLV is a four-stage launch vehicle alternating between solid and liquid fuels (Stage 1: Solid, Stage 2: Liquid/Vikas engine, Stage 3: Solid, Stage 4: Liquid).
☛ PS4 Propulsion: The PS4 stage is powered by two liquid engines using Monomethylhydrazine (MMH) as fuel and Mixed Oxides of Nitrogen (MON-3) as oxidizer.
☛ Debris Mitigation: By utilizing the spent stage and subsequently de-orbiting it, POEM actively aids in space debris reduction in Low Earth Orbit (LEO).
☛ Private Participation: POEM facilitates Indian startups, academia, and private entities via IN-SPACe to validate their technology at a very low cost.
Important One-Liners for Upcoming Exams:
☛ Which PSLV mission first successfully demonstrated the POEM platform in orbit? → PSLV-C53 (June 2022)
☛ What propellants are used in the fourth stage (PS4) of the PSLV? → Monomethylhydrazine (MMH) and Mixed Oxides of Nitrogen (MON-3)
☛ How many stages does the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) have? → 4 Stages (Solid-Liquid-Solid-Liquid)
☛ Which launch vehicle has ISRO developed exclusively for small satellites up to 500 kg into Low Earth Orbit? → Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV)
☛ In which year was the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) established? → 15 August 1969