ISRO Successfully Launches EOS-09 Satellite with PSLV-C61

ISRO Marks a Milestone with the Launch of EOS-09

On Sunday, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) celebrated a significant achievement by launching its 101st satellite, EOS-09, using the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C61). The organization announced the successful liftoff on X, stating, "LIFTOFF! ISRO's 101st launch mission takes flight aboard PSLV-C61." This mission involved deploying the Earth Observation Satellite, EOS-09, into a Sun Synchronous Polar Orbit (SSPO).

EOS-09: Enhancing Remote Sensing Capabilities

Following the deployment of EOS-09, the Orbit Change Thrusters (OCT) will be activated to reduce the altitude of the PS4 stage. This will be succeeded by passivation, a process aimed at minimizing the orbital lifespan of the stage to promote responsible space practices. The EOS-09 satellite is engineered to provide consistent and dependable remote sensing data for various operational applications.

Launch Details and Sustainability Efforts

#WATCH | Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launches PSLV-C61, which carries the EOS-09 (Earth Observation Satellite-09) into a SSPO orbit, from Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.

EOS-09 is a repeat satellite of EOS-04, designed with the mission objective to ensure remote… pic.twitter.com/KpJ52Wge0w

— ANI (@ANI) May 18, 2025

This launch also emphasizes sustainability, as EOS-09 is equipped with deorbiting fuel to ensure safe disposal post-mission. This marks the 63rd flight of the PSLV rocket and the 27th using the PSLV-XL variant, achieving a total of 100 launches prior to May 18. ISRO stated, "This mission continues the PSLV's record of delivering reliable performance across a wide range of payloads and orbits."

Understanding EOS-09

EOS-09 is a sophisticated Earth observation satellite featuring C-band synthetic aperture radar technology. It is capable of capturing high-resolution images of the Earth's surface in all weather conditions, both day and night. This functionality significantly enhances India's surveillance and management capabilities across various sectors. On Saturday, Scientist W Selvamurthy praised the ISRO team, technicians, and associated industries for their efforts in launching the satellite. He highlighted the importance of EOS-09 as part of a satellite constellation with applications in agriculture, forestry, disaster management, and even strategic military uses.