Understanding the Differences Between PSLV and GSLV
When it comes to space missions, India has made a mark by launching satellites using its two main vehicles – PSLV or Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle, and GSLV or Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle. While both vehicles achieve the same purpose, there are distinct differences between the two.
The Basics – What are PSLV and GSLV?
The PSLV is a rocket system used to deploy satellites in polar orbits. It can launch payloads up to 1,750 kg into Low Earth Orbits (LEO) and up to 1,400 kg into higher orbits. On the other hand, GSLV is used to deploy payloads in Geosynchronous Transfer Orbits (GTO) and Geosynchronous Orbits (GSO). It can launch payloads up to 2,200 kg into GTO and up to 5,000 kg into GSO.
Difference in Fuel and Boosters
One of the significant differences between PSLV and GSLV lies in their fuel systems. PSLV uses Solid propellant boosters, while GSLV uses Liquid propellant boosters. The solid propellant boosters are less efficient than the liquid propellant boosters as they cannot be switched off during launch. However, GSLV’s liquid boosters provide a better thrust-to-weight ratio, which makes it more efficient in deploying heavier payloads.
Cost and Reliability
Another difference between PSLV and GSLV lies in their cost and reliability. PSLV is considered the more cost-effective of the two systems since it uses a simpler design and solid fuel boosters. On the reliability front, both systems have a considerable success rate, with PSLV having more successful launches than GSLV. However, GSLV has been improving over the years and has also achieved several successful launches.
Conclusion
In summary, the critical differences between PSLV and GSLV lie in their fuel systems, payload capacity, cost-effectiveness, and reliability. While PSLV is ideal for deploying lighter satellites in polar orbits and is more cost-effective, GSLV is suitable for deploying heavier payloads in higher orbits and has better thrust to weight ratio. Either way, India’s space program continues to grow, and both PSLV and GSLV are essential vehicles in achieving that goal.
Table difference between pslv and gslv
| PSLV | GSLV |
|---|---|
| Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) is a 4-stage rocket developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). | Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) is a 3-stage rocket developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). |
| It is used for launching satellites into Low Earth Orbit (LEO). | It is used for launching satellites into Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO). |
| It has a payload capacity of up to 1,750 kg for LEO and up to 1,200 kg for Polar orbits. | It has a payload capacity of up to 2,500 kg for GTO. |
| It uses solid, and liquid propulsion systems for its different stages. | It uses liquid propulsion systems for all its stages. |
| It has successfully launched several Indian and foreign satellites, including Chandrayaan-1 and Mangalyaan. | It has been used for launching Indian communication satellites as well as navigation satellites. |