New Delhi: The Indian space agency, ISRO, created history once again early Friday morning by successfully launching the country’s latest imaging satellite. A payload weighing over 2,300 kilograms was placed into a precise orbit using the GSLV rocket. Today’s launch marked ISRO’s first success of the year; notably, a PSLV rocket flight had failed earlier in January. Here is what the ISRO chief had to say about this successful launch.
EOS-05 to transmit strategic data from 36,000 km above Earth
ISRO scientists stated that the EOS-05 satellite was successfully placed into its designated sub-geosynchronous transfer orbit approximately 18 minutes after liftoff from the spaceport. While India currently has 22 operational satellites in space—all of which are Earth Observation satellites operating from Low Earth Orbit (LEO)—the EOS-05 satellite will be positioned at an altitude of approximately 36,000 kilometers (Geosynchronous Orbit). At this altitude, the satellite will synchronize its movement with the Earth’s rotation.
Heaviest satellite launched via GSLV to date
It is worth noting that this satellite, weighing over 2,300 kilograms, is the heaviest ever carried by the GSLV, and it proceeded along its intended trajectory with perfect precision.
EOS-05 satellite to provide real-time images of Earth
This satellite is being described as an “eye in the sky” because its advanced, high-resolution cameras will capture clear and stable images of any potential activity along our borders. It will provide real-time imagery and assist the nation in sectors such as agriculture and disaster management. EOS-05 to provide the Army with clear images with 5-meter resolution
To put it simply, this satellite is equipped with a specialized telescope that will not only keep a close watch on activities along India’s borders but also provide the armed forces with clear, real-time images with a resolution of up to 5 meters. After some initial setbacks, the success of this mission has certainly boosted everyone’s morale.
Union Minister Jitendra Singh congratulates on the successful launch
Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Jitendra Singh, wrote in a post on X, “Another major success for India in the space sector! Congratulations to the ISRO team on the successful launch of GSLV-F17/EOS-05. EOS-05 is a state-of-the-art Earth Observation Satellite and India’s first imaging satellite to operate from a geosynchronous orbit. It facilitates advanced imaging across visible, infrared, multi-spectral, and hyper-spectral bands. Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India’s space capabilities are constantly scaling new heights, and our position as a global space power is strengthening.”
Imaging satellite successfully placed in the required orbit
ISRO Chief V. Narayanan happily stated, “I am delighted to announce that the GSLV F-17 vehicle has successfully and precisely placed the advanced EOS-05 geo-imaging satellite into the designated and required orbit.”
EOS-05 was the 19th mission for the GSLV
V. Narayanan said, “This is the 107th launch from Sriharikota and the 19th mission for the GSLV.” He recalled that the first GSLV (D1) launch carried a payload of 1,536 kg, and since then, ISRO has progressively enhanced the GSLV’s performance by optimizing structural mass and improving propulsion systems. Today, we have launched the heaviest satellite, weighing 2,367 kilograms, using this launch vehicle.
India to start receiving “strategic data”
The ISRO Chief stated that once EOS-05 becomes operational in orbit, it will become India’s first dedicated imaging satellite to provide “strategic data” for the country from a geostationary orbit.
Successful launch of EOS-05 hailed as a major achievement
Citing satellite data, V. Narayanan confirmed that all systems are functioning correctly and the solar panels have been successfully deployed. He said, “The satellite’s health is excellent. This is a major achievement for our country’s space program, as it is the first EOS to be positioned on a geostationary platform for national activities.”
EOS-05 to be positioned on a geostationary platform
The ISRO Chief stated that the process of raising the orbit will be carried out in the coming days, and the satellite will be maneuvered to its required orbit and positioned on the geostationary platform.
