PSLV-C62 Mission: ISRO's Earth Observation Satellite Launch Countdown Begins
PSLV-C62 mission to launch EOS-N1 and 15 co-passenger satellites.
Photo by Claudio Schwarz
Key Facts
Launch date: January 12, 2026
Mission: PSLV-C62/EOS-N1
Total launches from Sriharikota: 105
UPSC Exam Angles
GS Paper III: Science and Technology - Space
GS Paper II: International Relations - Space Cooperation
Potential for questions on launch vehicle technology, satellite applications, and ISRO's achievements
Visual Insights
PSLV-C62 Launch Site: Sriharikota
Map showing the location of Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, from where the PSLV-C62 mission was launched. Highlights the strategic importance of the location for ISRO's launch activities.
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More Information
Background
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has a rich history dating back to 1962, when it was initially established as the Indian National Committee for Space Research (INCOSPAR) by Jawaharlal Nehru. Dr. Vikram Sarabhai, considered the father of the Indian space program, played a pivotal role in its formation.
INCOSPAR's primary focus was to conduct space research and utilize space technology for national development. In 1969, INCOSPAR was renamed ISRO, marking a significant step towards a more structured and independent space agency. Early efforts focused on sounding rockets and gradually progressed to satellite development and launch capabilities.
The Aryabhata satellite, launched in 1975 with Soviet assistance, was a landmark achievement, demonstrating India's growing capabilities in space technology. The development of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) in the 1990s was a crucial milestone, providing India with a reliable and cost-effective means to launch satellites into polar orbits.
Latest Developments
In recent years, ISRO has focused on enhancing its launch capabilities with the development of the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) to cater to the growing demand for launching smaller satellites. The SSLV aims to provide a cost-effective and flexible launch solution for small satellites, including those developed by startups and academic institutions. ISRO is also actively involved in developing reusable launch vehicle technology to further reduce launch costs.
The Gaganyaan mission, India's first human spaceflight program, is a major ongoing project, aiming to send astronauts into space using an indigenously developed spacecraft. Furthermore, ISRO is expanding its international collaborations, working with space agencies from other countries on joint missions and technology development. The focus on earth observation satellites continues, with advancements in sensor technology and data processing capabilities to provide more detailed and accurate information for various applications, including agriculture, disaster management, and urban planning.
Practice Questions (MCQs)
1. Consider the following statements regarding the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV): 1. PSLV is capable of launching satellites into Geostationary Transfer Orbit (GTO). 2. PSLV was first successfully launched in the 1990s. 3. PSLV can launch multiple satellites in a single mission. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.2 and 3 only
- C.1 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: B
Statement 1 is incorrect as PSLV is primarily used for launching satellites into polar orbits and Low Earth Orbits (LEO), not GTO. Statements 2 and 3 are correct.
2. With reference to Earth Observation Satellites (EOS), which of the following applications is/are typically associated with them? 1. Weather forecasting 2. Disaster management 3. Military surveillance Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- A.1 only
- B.2 and 3 only
- C.1 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: D
Earth Observation Satellites are used for a wide range of applications, including weather forecasting, disaster management, and military surveillance. All three statements are correct.
3. Which of the following statements is NOT correct regarding the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC)?
- A.It is located in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.
- B.It is the primary launch centre for ISRO.
- C.It houses multiple launch pads for different types of rockets.
- D.It was named after the first chairman of ISRO, Vikram Sarabhai.
Show Answer
Answer: D
The Satish Dhawan Space Centre is named after Satish Dhawan, not Vikram Sarabhai. Satish Dhawan was a prominent Indian aerospace engineer and chairman of ISRO.
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Source Articles
Countdown for launch of PSLV-C62/EOS-N1 mission begins - The Hindu
PSLV-C62/EOS-N1 Mission encounters anomaly during end of PS3 stage - The Hindu
ISRO to launch PSLV-C62/EOS-N1 Mission on January 12 - The Hindu
Countdown for launch of ISRO’s Bluebird Block-2 Mission begins in Sriharikota - The Hindu