ISRO Successfully Launches EOS-05 Earth Observation Satellite Aboard GSLV-F17

In a significant milestone for India's space program, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched the GSLV-F17 rocket carrying the state-of-the-art EOS-05 Earth observation satellite on September 4, 2026. The 51.7-metre-tall launch vehicle lifted off at 2:55 AM IST from the second launch pad at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. Approximately 18 minutes after liftoff, the rocket precisely injected the 2,367-kilogram spacecraft into its intended Sub-Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit. The EOS-05 spacecraft represents a major technological leap as it is India's first dedicated Earth imaging satellite positioned in a geostationary orbit, roughly 36,000 kilometres above the planet. Unlike low-Earth orbit satellites that provide periodic images as they pass overhead, EOS-05 will maintain a continuous, real-time view over the Indian subcontinent. Equipped with advanced optical payloads, it will deliver high-resolution monitoring for atmospheric observations, oceanography, disaster management, and weather forecasting. ISRO Chairman Dr. V. Narayanan confirmed that the satellite's solar panels deployed successfully and all operational parameters remain normal. The launch marks the GSLV's 19th mission and the heaviest payload ever injected into orbit by this class of launch vehicle. Prime Minister Narendra Modi commended ISRO scientists for the achievement, highlighting that the real-time data provided by EOS-05 will strengthen national security, agricultural planning, and disaster response capabilities across the nation.