Wed Jan 07 09:21:08 UTC 2026: ### ISRO Set to Launch PSLV-C62/EOS-N1 Mission on January 12, 2026
The Story:
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has announced the scheduled launch of the PSLV-C62/EOS-N1 mission on January 12, 2026. This mission includes the launch of the Earth Observation Satellite (EOS-N1) and other payloads from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. The EOS-N1 is primarily an earth imaging satellite purposed for strategic objectives, though detailed specifications have not been publicly disclosed by ISRO.
The launch signifies ISRO’s first mission of 2026, following the successful deployment of the US’s BlueBird Block-2 satellite communication satellite in low earth orbit on December 24, 2025. This launch is also critical as the previous attempt to launch a satellite aboard the PSLV-C61 encountered a glitch in its third stage on May 18, 2025.
Key Points:
* ISRO’s PSLV-C62/EOS-N1 mission is scheduled for launch on January 12, 2026, at 10:17 a.m. IST.
* The launch will take place from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota.
* EOS-N1 is an earth imaging satellite designed for strategic purposes.
* This mission follows the successful launch of the US’s BlueBird Block-2 satellite on December 24, 2025.
* A previous launch attempt, PSLV-C61, failed on May 18, 2025, due to a glitch in the third stage.
* The PSLV-C62/EOS-N1 mission will also launch payloads developed by startups and academia from India and abroad.
* This will be the 105th launch from Sriharikota.
Key Takeaways:
* ISRO is continuing its ambitious space program with a focus on Earth observation and strategic capabilities.
* The success of the PSLV-C62 mission is crucial after the setback experienced with the PSLV-C61 launch failure.
* International collaboration is evident through the launch of US satellite and also the payloads developed by startups and academia from India and abroad.
Impact Analysis:
The successful launch of PSLV-C62/EOS-N1 has significant implications for India’s space program. It not only demonstrates ISRO’s resilience after previous setbacks but also reinforces India’s capabilities in deploying satellites for strategic purposes. Earth observation satellites are critical for national security, resource management, and disaster monitoring. Additionally, the inclusion of payloads from startups and academia highlights ISRO’s commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration within the space sector. The successful launch solidifies India’s position as a key player in the global space arena.
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