Exploring India’s First X-Ray Polarimeter Satellite: XpoSat

Unveiling the XPoSat Mission

• ISRO’s recent revelation of the X-Ray Polarimeter Satellite (XPoSat) stands as India’s pioneering step into X-ray polarization research in space.

Orbital Dynamics

• Set to operate within a Low Earth Orbit at around 650 km altitude, boasting a low inclination of approximately 6 degrees.

Dual Scientific Payloads

• The satellite proudly features two payloads, facilitating comprehensive analyses of X-ray sources, encompassing their temporal, spectral, and polarization attributes.

Mission Objectives

• XPoSat primarily aims to gauge X-ray polarization in the 8-30 keV energy band while engaging in prolonged studies within the 0.8-15 keV band.

Estimated Mission Lifespan

• The satellite’s operational expectancy is roughly 5 years, promising a substantial duration for research and exploration.

Strategic Observations

• XPoSat will strategically conduct observations during Earth’s eclipse period, maximizing its observational efficiency.

Insight into XPoSat’s Payloads

• POLIX – Primary Payload: Developed by Bengaluru’s Raman Research Institute (RRI) in collaboration with ISRO, POLIX is specialized in assessing medium X-ray energy ranges’ polarization degree and angle.
• XSPECT – Secondary Payload: Crafted by ISRO’s U.R. Rao Satellite Centre (URSC), XSPECT is geared towards gathering spectroscopic data within the 0.8-15 keV range.

The Significance of XPoSat

• Polarization, dictating light waves’ orientation, extends to X-rays, an intriguing form of electromagnetic radiation. Examining cosmic sources of X-rays unveils vital insights into extreme environments, such as those surrounding black holes, neutron stars, and supernova remnants.