ISRO’s GSLV rocket changed its image. Why was it nicknamed ‘naughty boy’?

In its recent launch, India’s Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV), affectionately known as the “naughty boy” due to past inconsistencies, successfully took off, carrying the INSAT-3DS weather satellite. GSLV-F14 represented ISRO’s 93rd mission and the space agency’s second mission of the year.

This launch held significant importance for GSLV, which had previously faced criticism due to inconsistencies in its performance. However, the rocket successfully lifted off carrying the 2,274-kg INSAT-3DS into its designated orbit. This mission marked the 16th for the GSLV and its 10th flight using the indigenously developed cryogenic engine. But more than the satellite, it was the rocket that was the focus of attention of this launch.

ISRO Chairman S. Somanth expressed his jubilation in announcing the successful completion of the GSLV-F14 mission during a post-launch speech, referring to the mission by its numerical designation. He also stated that the spacecraft had been placed into a highly satisfactory orbit.

The designation “naughty boy” is colloquially assigned to the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) rocket, known for its role in launching satellites. This moniker stems from the rocket’s inconsistent performance history, featuring both successful launches and occasional failures. Despite this reputation, the GSLV rocket executed a recent flawless launch on February 17, 2024, carrying the INSAT-3DS weather satellite. As of February 19, 2024, the GSLV rocket (naughty boy) has completed its mission and is no longer operational.

It’s important to note that the INSAT-3DS satellite, distinct from the GSLV rocket, is now operational. Expected to operate for the next 10 years, it will contribute to India’s weather forecasting and disaster warning capabilities by collecting valuable weather data.

Why is the GSLV rocket nicknamed ‘naughty boy’?

GSLV had flown 15 times before this, and four of these had been unsuccessful, a very high failure rate for any rocket. The journey of the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) has been characterized by a blend of notable accomplishments and setbacks, earning it the colloquial nickname “naughty boy” due to its inconsistent performance.

Here is an overview of the GSLV’s narrative:

From its inception in 2001 to 2004, the GSLV encountered both triumphs and hurdles. The inaugural GSLV-D1 launch in April 2001 failed to place the GSAT-1 satellite into orbit. However, December 2001 marked a significant milestone with the successful deployment of GSAT-2 by GSLV-D2. Challenges surfaced in May 2003 with GSLV-E1 experiencing issues related to cryogenic engines. Despite setbacks, September 2004 witnessed success as GSLV-F01 placed INSAT-3A into orbit, showcasing India’s capability to launch heavier satellites.

Between 2005 and 2014, the GSLV witnessed a series of mixed outcomes. In July 2006, the GSLV-F02 launch ended in failure due to a payload fairing malfunction. However, in April 2007, the GSLV-F3 successfully launched INSAT-4C, demonstrating its capability. September 2007 saw another setback as the GSLV-F4 mission failed due to cryogenic engine problems.

Despite these challenges, December 2009 marked a crucial achievement with GSLV-D3 successfully injecting GSAT-4 into orbit. The GSLV-F05 mission in April 2010 failed to deliver the GSAT-5P satellite, contributing to the rocket’s nickname “naughty boy.” However, December 2014 brought a glimmer of success as GSLV-D5 successfully launched GSAT-14.

In January 2015, GSLV-Mk I-D6 faced challenges, while December 2015 marked a milestone with the successful deployment of GSAT-15. June 2017 had a setback, but November 2018 showcased success with GSLV-Mk III-D1 deploying GSAT-17. January 2021 faced failure, but February 2024 marked a remarkable achievement with GSLV-F14 launching INSAT-3DR.

Furthermore, the ISRO chairman affirmed the progress of the joint venture with NASA called NISAR, a cooperative Earth-observing project employing two radars, each specialized to observe a wider range of changes. This mission utilizes two specialized radars, each designed to observe a broader spectrum of changes, thereby enhancing its observational capabilities beyond those achievable by a single radar.

GSLV: A journey of Triumphs and Tribulations

Nevertheless, the GSLV-MkIII variant, designed to elevate GTO capability to 4000 kg, coupled with the triumphant GSLV-F14 mission, indicates ISRO’s triumph over previous challenges.

The trajectory of GSLV-F14, transforming from the ‘naughty boy’ to a ‘disciplined achiever,’ encapsulates a story of persistence, technological advancement, and an unwavering commitment to success.