The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is poised to inaugurate its 2026 launch calendar with a significant mission that blends national security with global commercial partnerships. The space agency will launch the PSLV-C62 mission on January 12 at 10:17 am IST from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.
Strategic and Commercial Payloads Aboard PSLV-C62
At the heart of this mission is the EOS-N1, a high-resolution earth observation satellite developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). This primary payload is designed for strategic reconnaissance and will substantially upgrade India's space-based surveillance and monitoring capabilities, supporting national security projects.
Alongside the EOS-N1, the mission exemplifies international collaboration by carrying the Kestrel Initial Demonstrator (KID), a mini-satellite built by a Spanish startup. KID will remain connected to the PS-4 stage of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) after deployment. Furthermore, the rocket will carry a total of 17 commercial satellites from a mix of Indian startups, research organizations, and international clients from Mauritius, Luxembourg, the UAE, Singapore, Europe, and the USA.
The Workhorse Rocket and Public Viewing
The mission will employ the reliable Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), the proven workhorse of ISRO's fleet, known for its record of accurate orbital placements. The launch will be conducted from the First Launch Pad (FLP) at the SDSC SHAR range.
In a move to engage the public, ISRO has invited space enthusiasts to witness the launch live from the Launch View Gallery at SDSC SHAR, Sriharikota. Interested individuals must register online at "lvg.shar.gov.in" and possess a valid Aadhar ID or driver's license, along with a functional mobile number and email ID.
Significance of the Mission for India's Space Ambitions
The PSLV-C62 mission is a strategic blend of domestic defence needs and global commercial ambitions. It underscores ISRO's precision, dependability, and flexibility as a launch service provider in the competitive global satellite launch industry. By simultaneously deploying a strategic defence satellite and numerous commercial payloads, the mission highlights India's growing prowess in both the defence and space commerce sectors.
This launch marks a powerful and symbolic beginning to 2026, reinforcing India's commitment to advancing its technological frontiers and securing a prominent role in the new era of global space exploration and utilization.
