In a powerful blend of tradition and technology, top scientists from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) visited the sacred Tirumala temple to seek divine blessings for the nation's first space launch of 2026. Led by ISRO Chairman Dr V Narayanan, the delegation performed special prayers for a miniature model of the PSLV-C62 satellite, upholding a customary practice observed before major missions.
A Sacred Tradition for Launch Success
The visit to the hill shrine of Lord Venkateswara is part of a decades-old ritual deeply ingrained in ISRO's launch preparations. Before every significant mission, scientists pay homage at two key temples: the Chengalamma Parameswari temple in Sullurpeta and the iconic Tirumala temple. This time, the prayers are for the success of the PSLV-C62 mission, which is scheduled for a precise lift-off at 10:17 AM on January 12, 2026. The launch will take place from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC-SHAR) at Sriharikota.
Details of the PSLV-C62 Commercial Mission
The upcoming launch marks an important milestone as the 9th dedicated commercial mission managed by NewSpace India Ltd (NSIL), ISRO's commercial arm. The primary objective is to deploy the EOS-N1 Earth observation satellite for a specific user. Additionally, the workhorse Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) will carry 15 co-passenger satellites from various domestic and international clients, providing crucial launch services.
This flight will be the 64th journey for the reliable PSLV rocket. Over its illustrious career, the PSLV has been the backbone of India's space ambitions, enabling historic missions like Chandrayaan-1, the Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan), Aditya-L1, and the Astrosat space observatory. Its proven track record makes it a trusted vehicle for both national and commercial payloads.
Continuity of Faith and Science
The ritual at Tirumala underscores a unique cultural aspect of India's space program, where cutting-edge scientific endeavor walks hand-in-hand with timeless spiritual faith. By performing pujas for a replica of the satellite, ISRO scientists symbolically place their technical masterpiece under divine grace, seeking a safe and successful journey to the heavens. This practice highlights the human element behind the complex machinery, reflecting the hopes and aspirations riding on each mission. As the countdown begins for the January 12 launch, the nation watches, buoyed by both scientific precision and ancient blessings.
