Introduction
India’s space program continues to make headlines as the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) attempted its first satellite launch of 2026. On Monday, ISRO launched the PSLV-C62 mission from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. The mission carried 16 satellites, including Anvesha, a cutting-edge surveillance satellite developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
Unfortunately, the mission faced an anomaly during flight, preventing the successful deployment of the satellites. ISRO is currently analyzing flight data to determine the exact cause.
About the Anvesha Satellite
The Anvesha satellite is an advanced surveillance and reconnaissance satellite designed for:
- High-resolution imaging and mapping
- Detecting targets in dense forests, bushes, or bunkers from hundreds of kilometres above Earth
- Supporting strategic defence and monitoring operations
Anvesha represents a significant step in India’s efforts to integrate advanced satellite technology for both national security and research purposes.
PSLV-C62 Launch Details
- Launch Vehicle: PSLV (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle)
- Mission Name: EOS-N1
- Launch Site: Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota
- Lift-off Time: 10:18:30 a.m. IST
- Payload: 16 satellites including Anvesha
- Operator: ISRO, undertaken by New Space India Limited (NSIL), the commercial arm of ISRO
During the flight, the PSLV-C62 encountered an anomaly near the end of the PS3 stage, which prevented the planned deployment of the satellites. ISRO has confirmed that teams are carefully analyzing all flight data and will share updates once the assessment is complete.
Significance of the Anvesha Mission
Despite the mission anomaly, the launch reflects India’s continued commitment to advancing satellite technology:
- Strengthens India’s surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities
- Supports strategic and defence applications
- Advances high-resolution imaging technologies
- Provides valuable experience for improving launch vehicle reliability
Each satellite mission, even with challenges, contributes to building a resilient and self-reliant space ecosystem in India.
Impact on Research, Defence, and Technology
Once operational, satellites like Anvesha will:
- Provide critical intelligence and surveillance data for national security
- Test advanced satellite technologies for future missions
- Enhance Earth observation and mapping capabilities
- Inspire students and researchers to pursue careers in space science and defence technology
Anvesha also represents the growing collaboration between ISRO and DRDO, highlighting India’s integrated approach to space and defence research.
National Pride and International Recognition
India’s space achievements continue to attract global attention:
- Demonstrates India’s leadership in cost-effective and reliable satellite missions
- Contributes to global science and technology through collaboration and data sharing
- Reinforces India’s growing strategic and technological edge
Even in missions facing challenges, India’s space program showcases resilience, innovation, and commitment to scientific progress.
Conclusion
The PSLV-C62 mission, carrying the Anvesha satellite, marks ISRO’s first satellite launch attempt of 2026. While the mission faced an anomaly, the launch underscores India’s ambitious space program and its focus on advanced research, defence, and satellite technology. As ISRO analyzes flight data, the experience gained from this mission will strengthen future launches and continue to inspire the next generation of Indian scientists and engineers.
