ISRO PSLV-C61 launch is set to mark a historic milestone in India’s space journey, as the Indian Space Research Organisation prepares for its 101st mission. Scheduled for 5:59 AM IST on May 18, 2025, this mission will launch the EOS-09 Earth Observation Satellite from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.
The countdown started early morning on May 17, starting a 22-hour series of last checks, system verifications, and fueling prior to liftoff. With great hopes riding on this mission, here’s all you need to know about the soon-to-be-launched ISRO PSLV-C61 mission.
⏳ T-12 hours to ISRO’s 101st space launch
— ISRO (@isro) May 17, 2025
PSLV-C61 is mission-ready
📅 18 May 2025 | 5:59 AM IST |
📍 FLP, SDSC SHAR
📺 Live from 5:29 AMhttps://t.co/JTNzdc0QGP
More information: https://t.co/cIrVUJxcTZ#ISRO #Countdown #PSLVC61 pic.twitter.com/dnd5n0pFF6
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What is EOS-09? A Satellite with Strategic Value
The main point of the PSLV-C61 mission is the injection of EOS-09, a sophisticated Earth Observation Satellite of about 1,696 kg. EOS-09 will be placed in a Sun Synchronous Polar Orbit (SSPO), which will make it capable of providing high-resolution, all-weather, day-and-night imagery — critical for industries such as:
- Agriculture
- Forestry
- Disaster management
- Urban planning
- National security
EOS-09’s core instrument is a Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), which can pierce through cloud cover and darkness, making it a game-changer for real-time remote sensing.
ISRO PSLV-C61 Launch Vehicle Details
This mission marks the 63rd flight of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) and the 27th mission using the XL configuration, which includes six extended strap-on boosters.
Key specs of PSLV-C61:
- Height: 44.5 meters
- Lift-off Mass: 321 tonnes
- Configuration: Four-stage rocket with solid and liquid fuel stages
The total flight time of the PSLV-C61 mission is expected to be around 17 minutes, during which the satellite will be injected into its intended orbit with precision.
Sustainability in Space: A Debris-Free Mission
As part of ISRO’s green space policy, PSLV-C61 has a deorbiting strategy to reduce space trash. The most upper stage of the rocket (PS4) will be passivated and descended in height by means of Orbit Change Thrusters (OCTs) so that it won’t become permanent space trash.
EOS-09 itself has a fuel buffer for controlled de-orbiting once its mission life runs out after five years, placing emphasis on India increasing attention on responsible space activity.
A Repeat of Success: EOS-09 Follows EOS-04
While EOS-09 is a newer mission, it takes its cue from the previous EOS-04 mission (2022). It follows on from the first RISAT-1, enhancing imaging quality, power efficiency, and mission longevity. This repeat performance guarantees tried-and-tested reliability with enhanced capabilities.
Strategic Impact of EOS-09
Beyond the impressive tech, the launch has wider implications for India’s space program. With EOS-09 in orbit:
- India strengthens its remote sensing infrastructure.
- Government bodies gain access to real-time imaging for faster disaster response.
- Farmers, urban developers, and security agencies get access to valuable data to make informed decisions.
- The country moves closer to self-reliance in space-based Earth observation, reducing dependency on foreign satellites.
How to Watch the Launch Live
The ISRO PSLV-C61 launch will be streamed live on ISRO’s official website and YouTube channel. Viewers can also follow updates through ISRO’s social media handles and official press releases.
summary
The ISRO PSLV-C61 mission is not simply another satellite launch — it’s a reflection of India’s technological advancement and strategic vision. Through EOS-09, ISRO not only expands Earth observation capacity but also solidifies its commitment to sustainability in space.
As India celebrates its 101st space mission, the world space community looks on. This mission will solidify ISRO’s position among world-class space agencies and set the stage for upcoming missions under the Gaganyaan and Chandrayaan programmes.
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