Dhruva Space to Launch LEAP-TD Mission Aboard ISRO's PSLV-C58

Hyderabad-based full-stack space company, Dhruva Space has announced that it is set to commence 2024 with the LEAP-TD mission, scheduled for launch on 01 January aboard the Indian Space Research Organisation's (ISRO) PSLV-C58. The mission aims to validate Dhruva Space’s flagship P-30 nanosatellite platform, representing a significant stride in satellite innovation and space exploration.

The 'Launching Expeditions for Aspiring Payloads - Technology Demonstrator' (LEAP-TD) mission is slated to take off on the POEM platform of ISRO's PSLV-DL variant, equipped with two solid strap-on boosters. This mission marks the integration of a derivative of the Dhruva Space P-30 satellite platform into ISRO’s PSLV Orbital Experimental Module (POEM), facilitating in-orbit scientific experiments using the spent PS4 stage as an orbital platform.

Dhruva Space's LEAP-TD mission is geared towards validating the functionality and robustness of the P-30 platform and its subsystems in orbit. These subsystems include the onboard computer, TTC in UHF, Beacon in UHF, Attitude Control System with a Reaction Wheel, and Power Distribution Board. Collaboration with the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST), Thiruvananthapuram, for Telemetry, Tracking & Command (TT&C) activities underscores the synergy between industry and academia, encouraged by the Department of Space.

Designed for Low Earth Orbit (LEO) operations, the P-30 nanosatellite platform is the result of extensive research, development, and engineering expertise. This platform is poised to play a pivotal role in upcoming satellite missions of Dhruva Space and its customers. The LEAP initiative will transition into fully-fledged hosted payload solutions for space missions, reflecting Dhruva Space’s readiness to offer hosted payload services globally.

A hosted payload service involves a portion of a satellite, such as a sensor or instrument, owned by an entity other than the primary satellite operator. This hosted portion operates independently but shares the satellite’s power supply, transponders, and, in some cases, ground systems.

Sanjay Nekkanti, Chief Executive Officer of Dhruva Space, expressed excitement about the imminent validation of the P-30 nanosatellite platform. "The LEAP initiative marks a significant moment, underscoring our commitment to delivering full-stack and hosted payload solutions to our customers. This will be further enriched by new pursuits in the fields of Earth Observation, IoT solutions, and more."

Krishna Teja Penamakuru, Chief Operations Officer at Dhruva Space, emphasised the support received from ISRO, IN-SPACe, NSIL, and VSSC throughout the P-30’s journey. "The P-30 platform represents our team's dedication and expertise, and we are eager to validate its capabilities in the space environment."

Nanosatellites, crucial for dynamic Low Earth Orbit missions, require precise attitude control. The P-30 addresses this with a Reaction Wheel from French strategic equipment supplier Comat, with whom Dhruva Space formalised a partnership in February 2023. Ludovic Daudois, Chief Executive Officer of Comat, stated, "We are honored to be part of this milestone, supplying the precision reaction wheels that propel this mission to new heights. This achievement not only marks a significant moment for Dhruva Space but also strengthens the pioneer French-Indian partnership in the space sector. Here's to a future filled with continued success and exploration!"