PSLV-C51 with Bhagavad Gita, PM Modi's pic launched from Sriharikota

PSLV-C51 rocket, which is the 53rd mission of PSLV (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle), launched Amazonia-1 of Brazil as primary satellite and 18 co-passenger payloads—including PM Modi's picture and a copy of Bhagavad Gita—from Sriharikota.

These co-passenger satellites include Satish Dhawan Sat (SD-SAT) from Chennai-based Space Kidz India (SKI). A picture of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been engraved on the top panel of this spacecraft. "This is to show solidarity and gratitude for his [PM's] Aatmanirbhar initiative and space privatisation", said SKI, which is also sending up Bhagavad Gita in SD (secured digital) card.

The 637-kg Amazonia-1, which will be the first Brazilian satellite to be launched from India, is the optical earth observation satellite of National Institute for Space Research (INPE). "This satellite would further strengthen the existing structure by providing remote sensing data to users for monitoring deforestation in the Amazon region and analysis of diversified agriculture across the Brazilian territory," an ISRO statement said.

In view of the strict COVID-19 pandemic norms in place at SDSC SHAR, Sriharikota, gathering of media personnel is not planned there and launch viewing gallery will be closed.

The 18 co-passenger satellites are: four from ISRO's Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (three UNITY sats from consortium of three Indian academic institutes and the SD-SAT from SKI) and 14 from NSIL.

SKI will also be sending 25,000 names on board SD-SAT.