Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: Sriharikota
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
In this general knowledge question the focus is on a famous space milestone achieved by the Indian Space Research Organisation, commonly known as ISRO. The organisation set a world record by launching 104 satellites in a single Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle flight. Many competitive exams test awareness of this achievement and the related geography of Indian spaceports. Knowing from which site this historic multi satellite mission was launched helps candidates connect India's space technology achievements with key locations such as Sriharikota and other centres mentioned as distractors.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
The approach is to recall facts about Indian spaceports and link them with the record launch event. ISRO conducts most of its orbital launches from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre located on Sriharikota island in Andhra Pradesh. Bangalore and Ahmedabad are important ISRO centres but they are not orbital launch sites. Chandipur in Odisha is used mainly for missile tests, not for PSLV satellite launches. Therefore the concept tested here is the identification of Sriharikota as the primary Indian spaceport for PSLV missions and the specific launch site for the 104 satellite mission.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that ISRO's main satellite launch base is the Satish Dhawan Space Centre.Step 2: Note that this space centre is located on Sriharikota island on the east coast of India.Step 3: Remember that the record launch of 104 satellites using PSLV C37 was carried out from this space centre.Step 4: Compare the options and identify Sriharikota as the only one that is actually a dedicated spaceport used for PSLV orbital launches.Step 5: Conclude that Sriharikota is the correct answer to the question.
Verification / Alternative check:
An alternative check is to examine each option and ask whether any PSLV mission has actually lifted off from that location. Bangalore hosts ISRO headquarters and multiple research facilities but no orbital launch pad. Chandipur is related to missile testing by the defence establishment rather than satellite launches. Ahmedabad hosts important space research and sensor development centres, but again no launch complex. Only Sriharikota is widely known as the Satish Dhawan Space Centre and is repeatedly mentioned in the news whenever PSLV or GSLV missions are launched. This cross checking confirms that Sriharikota is the correct choice.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Bangalore is the headquarters of ISRO and a major information technology hub but not a rocket launch site. Chandipur is a missile test range and is not used for PSLV based satellite launches. Ahmedabad is home to ISRO centres like the Space Applications Centre, yet there is no orbital launchpad there. None of these options match the description of the actual launch site of the 104 satellite mission.
Common Pitfalls:
One common error is to choose Bangalore simply because many people associate ISRO with that city. Another pitfall is confusion between various test ranges and launch sites, leading candidates to select Chandipur, which is known for missile tests. Some may also assume that any major city with a space research centre, such as Ahmedabad, can serve as a spaceport. Careful reading of the question and basic awareness of India's dedicated launch infrastructure help to avoid these mistakes.
Final Answer:
The historic launch of 104 satellites in a single PSLV flight was carried out from Sriharikota.
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