PSOM-XL Motor

The PSOM-XL Motor (PSLV Strap-On Motor – XL variant) is a large solid rocket booster developed by the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) for India’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV). These motors function as strap-on boosters attached to the first stage of the launch vehicle and provide additional thrust during the initial phase of launch. The PSOM-XL configuration significantly enhances the payload carrying capability of the PSLV launch system.

Key Details:

Category: Solid Rocket Strap-On Booster Motor

Propellant Type: HTPB-based solid composite propellant (Hydroxyl-Terminated Polybutadiene binder with oxidizers and metallic fuel).

Description:
Design: A large cylindrical solid rocket motor attached externally to the PSLV first stage as a strap-on booster.
Structure: High-strength motor casing with insulation lining, nozzle assembly, ignition system, and thrust vector control components.
Dimensions: Approximately 13.5 meters in length and around 1 meter in diameter.
Propellant Capacity: Each PSOM-XL motor carries roughly 12 tonnes of solid propellant.

Performance Characteristics:
Burn Duration: Around 50–60 seconds during launch.
Function: Provides additional thrust during lift-off and early ascent to assist the core stage in lifting heavier payloads into orbit.
Integration: Typically six PSOM-XL boosters are mounted around the PSLV core stage in the PSLV-XL configuration.

Common Uses:

• Satellite Launch Missions: Used in PSLV-XL missions to place satellites into low-Earth orbit, sun-synchronous orbit, and other mission profiles.
• Payload Enhancement: Provides additional thrust allowing the launch vehicle to carry heavier or multiple satellites.
• Space Exploration Missions: Used in missions involving Earth-observation satellites, navigation systems, and interplanetary exploration missions.

Technology Status:
The PSOM-XL motor technology has been developed and matured by VSSC. Manufacturing and production capabilities have also been transferred to selected industry partners to support large-scale production for PSLV launch missions.

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