ISRO’s PSLV-C62 / EOS-N1 Mission
Context
Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is scheduled to launch PSLV-C62 / EOS-N1 Mission .
Launch site: Satish Dhawan Space Centre, First Launch Pad.
EOS-N1 is an Earth Observation Satellite with strategic imaging purposes.
About EOS-N1
Category: Earth observation / remote sensing satellite
Purpose:
High-resolution earth imaging
Strategic and national security-related applications
ISRO has not disclosed detailed specifications, indicating strategic sensitivity.
About PSLV-C62
Launch vehicle: Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) – ISRO’s workhorse.
Mission significance:
First ISRO launch of 2026
105th launch from Sriharikota
PSLV is widely used for:
Earth observation satellites
Commercial launches
Small satellite deployments
Context: Previous PSLV Glitch
On May 18, 2025, PSLV-C61 failed to place EOS-09 into orbit.
Cause:
Observation/anomaly in the third stage of the rocket.
Therefore, PSLV-C62 is important for:
Restoring confidence in PSLV reliability
Validating corrective measures
Prelims practice MCQs
Q. With reference to Earth Observation Satellites (EOS) of India, consider the following statements:
They are primarily used for remote sensing applications such as agriculture, disaster management and urban planning.
Strategic EOS missions often have limited public disclosure regarding payload specifications.
All EOS missions of India are launched only by the LVM-3 launch vehicle.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Correct answer: (a)
Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct: EOS satellites support civilian and strategic applications.
Statement 2 is correct: Strategic satellites like EOS-N1 have restricted information disclosure.
Statement 3 is incorrect: Most EOS missions are launched using PSLV, not exclusively LVM-3.
Q. Why is the PSLV referred to as the “workhorse” of India’s space programme?
(a) It is the only launch vehicle capable of interplanetary missions
(b) It has the highest payload capacity among Indian rockets
(c) It has a long record of reliable launches, especially for Earth observation satellites
(d) It is exclusively used for human spaceflight missions
Correct answer: (c)
Explanation:
PSLV has conducted numerous successful missions, particularly for Earth observation and commercial satellite launches.
LVM-3 has higher payload capacity and is meant for heavy-lift and human spaceflight.