PSLV C-60 SpaDeX space mission to lift off today: ISRO’s POEM to carry 24 payloads, tripling its capacity

India's growing space sector takes another leap forward tonight. ISRO will launch PSLV-C60 at 9:58 pm IST, marking a dual-purpose mission. Alongside its in-space docking demonstration, the rocket will carry 24 experimental payloads designed by start-ups and academic institutions.

The PS-4 Orbital Experiment Module (POEM) transforms the PSLV’s fourth stage. Instead of becoming debris, it hosts in-orbit microgravity experiments for up to three months. This mission includes 24 payloads, a significant increase from the eight hosted previously.

Ten payloads come from private entities and universities, while 14 belong to ISRO centres. Mumbai’s Manastu Space will launch VYOM-2U, a safer monopropellant. Bengaluru’s RV College of Engineering and Mumbai’s Amity University will conduct biological experiments in space. Hyderabad’s N Space Tech will test its SwetchaSAT-Vx, aiming to advance satellite communication.

Boosting Private Space Ventures
The POEM platform makes space experiments accessible to start-ups, reducing costs. Participants include GalaxEye Space, Bellatrix Aerospace, and MIT-WPU. IN-SPACe has signed 71 agreements with private players, driving the sector’s growth.

The PS-4 stage will be lowered to a 350 km orbit after deploying its main payloads. Flexible solar panels and a lithium-ion battery will power the module. India’s private space industry, now boasting 266 start-ups, reflects its rapid expansion since 2020.