ISRO Launches X Ray Polarimeter Satellite

On 1 January 2024, ISRO launched XPoSat on PSLV DL from Sriharikota a first of its kind mission to measure cosmic X ray polarization, enhancing understanding of neutron stars, black holes, and cosmic jets. The satellite has a five year mission life.
Scientific Objectives
Detect polarization in 2 30 keV range across cosmic sources.
Map magnetic fields and high energy processes near neutron stars.
Complement NASA’s IXPE mission by enabling multi spectrum comparisons.

Mission Design
Built by URSC and Raman Research Institute; features POLIX and XSPECT payloads; orbit at ~650 km, incline 6°, sun synchronous.
Early Results & Impact
Preliminary findings confirm polarization patterns in known X ray binaries. The mission proves ISRO's growing prowess in astrophysics.
Future Outlook
Data will be publicly released, inviting global scientific collaboration. XPoSat sets stage for future constellation missions, cementing India's presence in space science.