ISRO is set to revolutionize space technology with its POEM-4 (PSLV Orbital Experimental Module-4) mission. This mission, part of the PSLV-C60/SpaDeX launch, will deploy a record 24 scientific instruments into orbit. This is a significant increase from previous missions, with POEM-3 hosting only 8 payloads.
POEM-4 will carry a total of 24 payloads, including 14 from ISRO centers and 10 from non-government entities (NGEs) like academia and startups.
The 24 payloads include a mix of projects from ISRO, academia, and startups. Some of the experiments focus on robotics, such as a walking robotic arm and a debris-capturing robotic manipulator. Others involve advanced sensors, green propulsion systems, and biological experiments to study the impact of spaceflight on organisms.
This mission aims to test and validate technologies for future space missions, including India's space station. It's an exciting step forward for ISRO and the broader space community.
ISRO's official announcement provides more details about the experiments to conducted aboard POEM-4. Here are some highlights:
- Seed Germination: One of the experiments involves growing cowpea seeds in a closed-box environment to study seed germination and plant sustenance in space.
- Debris Capture: A robotic manipulator will demonstrate the capturing of tethered debris, which is crucial for maintaining a clean space environment.
- Green Propulsion: The mission will test green propulsion systems, such as hydrogen peroxide-based thrusters, offering a safer alternative to traditional fuels.
- Space Docking: The mission includes launching two small spacecraft, "Chaser" and "Target," to demonstrate space docking technologies essential for India's future space station.
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