ISROs LVM3 M4 Cryogenic Upper Stage Re-Enters Earths Atmosphere

The cryogenic upper stage of the LVM3 M4 launch vehicle, which successfully injected the Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft into the intended orbit on July 14 this year, made an uncontrolled re-entry into the Earth's atmosphere on Wednesday, the ISRO said.The probable impact point was predicted over the North Pacific Ocean. The final ground track did not pass over India, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) said in a statement.

Cryogenic Upper Stage Re-Enters Earth's Atmosphere

This rocket body was part of the LVM-3 M4 launch vehicle, it said.It re-entered the Earth's atmosphere around 14:42 IST.The re-entry of the rocket body took place within 124 days of its launch. The post-mission orbital lifetime of the LVM3 M4 cryogenic upper stage is, thus, fully compliant with the 25-year rule for low-Earth orbit objects as recommended by the Inter-Agency Space Debris Coordination Committee (IADC), the ISRO said.

Passivation and Post-Mission Disposal

Post Chandrayaan-3 injection, the upper stage had also undergone passivation to remove all residual propellant and energy sources to minimise the risks of accidental explosions as per the space debris mitigation guidelines prescribed by the United Nations and IADC, it was stated.Passivation and post-mission disposal of this rocket body in adherence to the internationally accepted guidelines once again reaffirms India's commitment to preserve the long-term sustainability of outer space activities, the ISRO added.

The successful re-entry of the cryogenic upper stage of the LVM3 M4 launch vehicle is a testament to ISRO's commitment to space safety and sustainability. The organisation's adherence to international guidelines and best practices ensures that its space activities have minimal impact on the environment and the long-term viability of outer space exploration.