ISRO Chief V Narayanan Discusses EOS-09 Satellite Launch Setback

Launch Attempt of EOS-09 Satellite Faces Technical Issues

On Sunday, V Narayanan, the head of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), announced that the launch of the EOS-09 satellite was unsuccessful due to technical difficulties encountered during the third stage of the PSLV-C61 mission. This update was shared by Narayanan while addressing the scientists following the launch attempt on May 18.

He explained, "We made an attempt to launch the PSLV-C61 vehicle, which consists of four stages. The initial two stages functioned as anticipated. However, during the third stage, we observed some issues... Consequently, the mission could not be completed. We are currently analyzing the entire performance and will provide updates as soon as possible."

Narayanan further elaborated, stating, "While operating the third stage, we noted an anomaly, which prevented the mission from being successful. We will conduct a thorough analysis and return with findings."

#WATCH | Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh | ISRO Chief V Narayanan says, "Today we attempted a launch of PSLV-C61 vehicle. The vehicle is a 4-stage vehicle. The first two stages performed as expected. During the 3rd stage, we are seeing observation...The mission could not be… pic.twitter.com/By7LZ8g0IZ

— ANI (@ANI) May 18, 2025

ISRO also shared an update on X, stating, "Today, we attempted our 101st launch. The PSLV-C61 performed normally until the second stage. However, due to an observation in the third stage, the mission could not be completed."

ISRO tweets, "Today 101st launch was attempted, PSLV-C61 performance was normal till 2nd stage. Due to an observation in 3rd stage, the mission could not be accomplished." pic.twitter.com/AREwHtmyp8

— ANI (@ANI) May 18, 2025

The PSLV-C61 was launched from Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, carrying the EOS-09 (Earth Observation Satellite-09) into a SSPO orbit. This satellite is a repeat of EOS-04, aimed at providing remote sensing data for various operational applications and enhancing observation frequency. This marked ISRO's 101st launch.

The PSLV-C61 flight sequence includes multiple stages, starting with the ignition of the PS1 and PSOM at lift-off, followed by the separation of various rocket components, and concluding with the satellite's deployment into orbit. According to Narayanan, the issue arose during the third stage, which utilizes a solid rocket motor to deliver high thrust after the atmospheric phase of the launch.