EOS-09 satellite launch: PSLV-C61 faces technical glitch in 3rd stage, Isro chief says mission 'could not be accomplished'

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) encountered technical issues during the third stage of the EOS-09 satellite launch, which led to the mission’s failure, Isro chief V Narayanan said after the launch on Sunday.

“During the functioning of the third stage, we observed an anomaly, and the mission could not be accomplished. After analysis, we shall come back,” the Isro chairman said.

Isro also shared an update on X, “Today, the 101st launch was attempted. PSLV-C61 performance was normal until the second stage. Due to an anomaly in the third stage, the mission could not be accomplished.”

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.

— ISRO (@isro) May 18, 2025

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The flight sequence of PSLV-C61 consists of various stages, beginning with the ignition of PS1 and PSOM on the ground, followed by the separation of various components, and finally the deployment of the satellite from the rocket.

Isro chief V Narayanan said the issue was detected in the third stage of the launch, which uses a solid rocket motor to deliver a powerful thrust after the rocket exits the atmosphere. This stage produces a maximum thrust of 240 kilonewtons.

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This was Isro’s 101st mission and aimed to place the EOS-09 satellite into a Sun Synchronous Polar Orbit (SSPO). The plan involved using Orbit Change Thrusters (OCT) to lower the altitude of the PS4 stage before passivation—a process that helps reduce space debris and ensures responsible space operations.

EOS-09 is a state-of-the-art Earth observation satellite designed to provide continuous and reliable remote sensing data for a range of operational sectors. It is equipped with C-band synthetic aperture radar, enabling it to capture high-resolution images of the Earth’s surface in all weather conditions, day or night—enhancing India’s surveillance and resource management capabilities.

This mission also emphasised sustainability, as the satellite carries deorbiting fuel to safely dispose of itself after completing its mission.