PSLV and GSLV are two types of launch vehicles developed by the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) to carry spacecraft into space. Here are some key differences between the two:
Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV):
- Designed for polar orbit satellite launches
- Capable of launching satellites into Low Earth Orbit (LEO), Sun-Synchronous Orbit (SSO), Sub-Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (Sub-GTO), and Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO)
- Has four variants with different configurations of solid rocket strap-on motors and core alone versions
- Considered the "workhorse" of ISRO and has the highest success rate
Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV):
- Designed for geostationary orbit satellite launches
- Capable of launching heavier payloads than PSLV, up to 2 tonne class of communication satellites
- Employs a cryogenic upper stage
- The Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mk-III (LVM3) is the next generation launch vehicle capable of launching 4 tonne class of communication satellites and 10 tonne class of payloads to LEOs
Both PSLV and GSLV are used to carry spacecraft into space, but they are designed for different types of orbits and have different capabilities.
