The Indian Space Research Organization's (ISRO) Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle PSLV-C58 successfully launched an X-ray Polarimeter Satellite (XPoSat). The satellite was launched at 9.10 a.m. on 1st January 2024 from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. This is India's first dedicated scientific mission to investigate the polarization of cosmic X-rays from astronomical sources. With the launch of XPoSat, India has become the world's second country, behind the United States, to send a specialized astronomy observatory to research black holes and neutron stars in our galaxy. The primary payload XPoSat has a mission life of around five years. 

Things to  Know about (XPoSat): 

• XPoSAT will aid in the study of radiation from black holes and neutron stars.
• Using X-ray photons and their polarization, XPoSAT will aid in the study of radiation from nearby black holes and neutron stars. 
• Long-term spectral and temporal investigations of cosmic X-ray sources will be conducted. 
• The XPoSat satellite cost around Rs 250 crore (approximately $30 million) whereas the NASA IXPE, which was launched in 2021, cost around $188 million. 

The rocket's PS4 stage had remaining fuel after successfully deploying XPoSat. A deliberate process was undertaken to safely dispose of this surplus fuel. This procedure served two purposes: it removed any residual fuel and prepared the PS4 stage for future tests involving re-entry into Earth's atmosphere when it will return.

 Dr. Vikram Sarabhai emphasized the importance of any space program in his quote:

"There are some who question the relevance of space activities in a developing nation. To us, there is no ambiguity of purpose. We do not have the fantasy of competing with economically advanced nations in the exploration of the moon or the planets or manned space flight. But we are convinced that if we are to play a meaningful role nationally, and in the community of nations, we must be second to none in the application of advanced technologies to the real problems of man and society."