ISRO rings in the new year with PSLV-C62, launching EOS-N1 and 18 satellites into orbit

ISRO’s PSLV-C62 Marks 2026 Debut With EOS-N1 and International Payloads (Image: ANI)

ISRO will begin 2026 with the PSLV-C62 launch on January 12 from Sriharikota, deploying the EOS-N1 hyperspectral earth observation satellite and 18 secondary payloads. Built mainly for DRDO, EOS-N1 will strengthen border surveillance and support civilian applications. The mission also carries experimental satellites from Europe and Indian startups, including India’s first in-orbit refuelling payload. The launch is seen as an important comeback for the PSLV programme after a failure in 2025.

Did our AI summary help?

India will begin 2026 with a significant space launch as the Indian Space Research Organisation prepares to fly the PSLV-C62 mission carrying a powerful Earth observation satellite designed to strengthen surveillance and research capabilities.

The launch is scheduled for Monday, 12 January, at 10.17 am from the first launchpad at the Sriharikota spaceport on India’s eastern coast. The Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle will place EOS-N1, codenamed Anvesha, into orbit along with several domestic and international secondary payloads.

What the PSLV-C62 mission will deliver

EOS-N1 is an advanced hyperspectral imaging satellite built primarily for the Defence Research and Development Organisation. The spacecraft can observe Earth across hundreds of wavelengths, allowing precise identification of materials and activities on the ground. Officials say this capability makes the satellite a critical asset for national security monitoring.

Beyond defence use, EOS-N1 will support agriculture planning, urban development mapping, and environmental monitoring across diverse landscapes. Its sensors can analyse crops, water bodies, forests, and expanding cities with improved accuracy. The satellite will act as another long-term observational platform supporting civilian and strategic objectives simultaneously.

Why secondary satellites matter this time

Alongside EOS-N1, the PSLV will deploy 18 secondary satellites from India and abroad. One of the key payloads is Europe’s Kestrel Initial Demonstrator, carried in collaboration with a Spanish startup. The mission will test experimental capsule re-entry with a planned splashdown in the South Pacific Ocean.

Several Indian universities and startups are also participating through cubesat missions. These include satellites developed by OrbitAID Aerospace, Dhruva Space, Space Kidz India, and multiple academic institutions. The mission reflects growing private sector involvement within India’s expanding space ecosystem.

OrbitAID’s AayulSAT will attempt India’s first on-orbit satellite refuelling demonstration. The technology aims to extend satellite lifespans while addressing sustainability and space debris concerns.

What comes next for PSLV programme

The PSLV-C62 launch is being closely watched following the failure of PSLV-C61 in 05/2025. That mission ended prematurely after a pressure drop in the rocket’s third stage. Although initial stages performed normally, the satellite failed to reach its intended orbit.

1. ISRO engineers have since reviewed systems and procedures ahead of this mission. Success would restore confidence in the workhorse launch vehicle and reinforce India’s reputation for reliable, cost-effective space access.