ISRO to Launch EOS via PSLV

Context

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is poised for a significant milestone with the launch of its 101st satellite, EOS-09, aboard the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C61). Scheduled for May 18, 2025, from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, this mission underscores India’s advancements in space technology and its growing focus on national security, disaster management, and sustainable development.

Mission Overview

• Launch Details: EOS-09 will be launched at 5:59 am IST from the First Launch Pad at Sriharikota using the PSLV-C61, marking the 63rd flight of the PSLV and its 27th in the XL configuration.
• Orbit: The satellite will be placed in a Sun-synchronous polar orbit (SSPO), ensuring it passes over the same area at the same local time each day, which is ideal for consistent earth observation.
• Payload: EOS-09 is a heavy satellite, weighing approximately 1,710 kg, and is equipped with a state-of-the-art C-band Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR).

Significance of the PSLV Rocket

• Workhorse of ISRO: The PSLV has been India’s most reliable and versatile launch vehicle since its debut in 1993, completing over 60 missions and launching satellites into various orbits for both domestic and international clients.
• Technical Edge: Its four-stage design, alternating between solid and liquid propulsion, provides high precision and flexibility for deploying payloads.
• Adaptability: The PSLV-C61 configuration is tailored for heavy payloads, demonstrating the rocket’s adaptability for diverse mission requirements.

Key Features of EOS-09

• All-Weather, Day-Night Imaging: The C-band SAR allows EOS-09 to capture high-resolution images regardless of weather conditions or time of day, overcoming the limitations of optical imaging satellites.
• Multiple Imaging Modes: The satellite can switch between ultra-high-resolution imaging for small object detection and wide-area scans, making it versatile for various applications.
• Mission Life and Debris Mitigation: EOS-09 has a mission life of five years. Notably, it carries reserve fuel for de-orbiting at the end of its mission, ensuring it burns up in the atmosphere and does not contribute to space debris-an alignment with international best practices.

Applications and Strategic Importance

• National Security: EOS-09 will play a pivotal role in border and coastal surveillance, monitoring sensitive areas, detecting suspicious movements, and supporting anti-terror operations, especially amid heightened security concerns.
• Disaster Management: The satellite’s all-weather imaging is crucial for flood monitoring, cyclone tracking, and other natural disaster responses, enabling timely and effective interventions.
• Resource Management: High-resolution data from EOS-09 will aid in agriculture, forestry, soil moisture assessment, and environmental monitoring, supporting sustainable development goals.
• Technological Advancement: The mission reflects India’s dual commitment to technological progress and responsible space operations, including measures to minimize space debris.

Operational and Technological Milestones

• Payload Integration Facility (PIF): This is the second PSLV launch utilizing ISRO’s new Payload Integration Facility, which allows for more efficient vehicle assembly and increased launch frequency.
• Responsible Space Practices: After deployment, the PSLV’s fourth stage will be passivated and its orbit lowered, further reducing the risk of space debris in line with global guidelines.

Conclusion

The launch of EOS-09 aboard PSLV-C61 marks a major step forward for India’s space program. It not only strengthens the nation’s surveillance and disaster management capabilities but also showcases ISRO’s commitment to technological innovation and responsible space stewardship. As India continues to expand its presence in space, missions like EOS-09 are central to national security, resource management, and international collaboration.

Source: India Today

UPSC Prelims Practice Question

Q. With reference to the recent launch of the Earth Observation Satellite (EOS-09) by ISRO, consider the following statements:

1. EOS-09 was launched aboard the PSLV-C61 from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota.
2. The satellite is equipped with a Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) payload, enabling all-weather, day-and-night imaging.
3. EOS-09 will be placed in a geostationary orbit to provide continuous coverage of the Indian subcontinent.
4. The mission includes measures for post-mission disposal to minimize space debris.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A) 1 and 2 only
B) 1, 2 and 4 only
C) 1, 3 and 4 only
D) 2 and 3 only

Answer: B)

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