PSLV ORBITAL EXPERIMENTAL MODULE-3 (POEM-3)

1. On March 21, 2024, The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) achieved another milestone with the successful PSLV Orbital Experimental Module-3 (POEM-3) re-entry into the Earth's atmosphere without leaving any debris in orbit.

2. Launched on January 1, 2024, the PSLV-C58/XPoSat mission demonstrated ISRO's dedication to responsible space operations and debris mitigation.

POEM-3 Mission Goals and Payloads:

1. Equipped with nine experimental payloads, POEM-3 focused on technology demonstrations and scientific experiments on indigenous systems.
2. Six payloads were delivered by Non-Government Entities (NGEs) through IN-SPACe, and mission objectives were met within a month of launch.

Deorbiting and Re-entry Process:

1. After all the satellites were placed in their orbits, the last stage of PSLV was converted into a 3-axis stabilized platform (POEM-3).
2. Deorbiting from 650 km to 350 km facilitated quick re-entry.
3. Measures were taken to deactivate the stage to reduce the risk of break-up.

Impact Location and Tracking: 

1. Due to natural forces affecting its orbital altitude, POEM-3 was projected to impact over the North Pacific Ocean on March 21, 2024.
2. ISRO Telemetry Tracking and Command Network (ISTRAC) ground stations and Multi-Object Tracking Radar (MOTR) tracked POEM-3 until near re-entry.

Opportunities for Academia, Startups, and NGEs:

1. The cost-effective POEM platform opens up opportunities for academia, startups and NGEs to experiment with new payloads.
2. Various organizations used this opportunity to conduct experiments such as electric thrusters and star-tracking.

Responsible Space Operations:

Recognizing the major threat of space debris, ISRO resolved to address the challenge by advancing debris tracking systems, developing deorbiting technologies and promoting responsible satellite deployment practices.