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ISRO Shares Preliminary Findings on EOS-09 Satellite Mission Failure

May 18, 2025, 10:43 am

India’s 101st space mission was hit by a setback on Sunday morning when the PSLV-C61 rocket carrying the EOS-09 satellite prematurely malfunctioned during its third stage. The launch had gone off as scheduled at 5:59 a.m. from Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota but was unable to be completed successfully as it faced a technical snag.

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) informed that the mission went as per plan until the second stage. But during the third of four stages of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), a snag developed, which resulted in the failure of the mission.

On 18th May 2025, the 101st launch attempt, PSLV-C61 performance was normal up to the 2nd stage. Because of an observation in the 3rd stage, the mission could not be completed,” ISRO stated in a release.

Chairman V Narayanan detailed the failure further, attributing a pressure drop in the third stage motor as the cause. “Today, we aimed for the 101st launch from Sriharikota, the PSLVC61 EOS-09 mission. The PSLV is a four-stage vehicle, and until the second stage, the performance was normal. The third stage motor began splendidly, but while the third stage was in operation, we are observing something,” he added.

“And the motor pressure–there was a drop in the chamber pressure of the motor case, and the mission could not be achieved. We are analyzing the overall performance, we shall return at the earliest,” he further said, PTI reports.

The goal was to put the EOS-09 satellite in a Sun Synchronous Polar Orbit (SSPO). EOS-09, which is a repeat of the previous EOS-04 mission, was designed to deliver remote sensing information to user groups for operational uses and to enhance observation frequency.

If it had been successful, the mission would have employed Orbit Change Thrusters (OCT) to reduce the PS4 stage altitude following satellite deployment. This would be accompanied by passivation to truncate the orbital life of the PS4.

With a Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) payload, EOS-09 was meant to provide high-resolution imagery for earth observation missions under any weather conditions.

ISRO has ordered a thorough probe into the third stage anomaly to find out the root cause and avoid such problems in future missions.

ISRO Chief: 10 Satellites Keeping an Eye on India Amid Pakistan Tensions

May 12, 2025, 2:09 pm

ISRO Chairman Dr. V. Narayanan made the revelation that ten satellites are operating 24/7 continuously for strategic purpose to safeguard Indian citizens. “Today, 10 satellites are working 24/7 continuously for a strategic reason in order to provide safety and security to the country’s citizens,” he declared at the convocation ceremony in Central Agricultural University in Imphal, Manipur, on Sunday.

His comment comes at the time of intensified tensions between Pakistan and India after India’s Operation Sindoor on May 7. The operation was against terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir as retaliation for the lethal Pahalgam attack.

Dr. Narayanan underscored the vital function played by satellite and drone technology towards national security. “If we have to maintain the safety of our nation, we have to serve via our satellites. We have to patrol our 7,000 km coastline. We have to watch the entire north always. We can’t do that without the use of satellite and drone technology,” he underlined.

He also informed of ISRO’s plans for the future, mentioning that India will be a ‘vibrant space power’ and will soon have its own space station by 2040. Dr. Narayanan further mentioned that ISRO is also working on a dedicated satellite to help G20 countries monitor climate change, air pollution, and weather conditions.

Looking back at the journey of the country since independence, the ISRO chairman said the achievements registered have been ‘phenomenal and outstanding’. He also pointed out that 433 satellites of 34 countries are lifted from India and placed in orbit, highlighting the country’s increasing prominence in international space exploration.

Elon Musk’s SpaceX And ISRO Unite To Launch India’s 4,700-Kg GSAT-N2 Satellite | WATCH

November 19, 2024, 8:45 am

Elon Musk-owned SpaceX successfully launched the Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) GSAT-N2 communication satellite, also referred to as GSAT-20, aboard its Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral, Florida, on November 19, 2024. This milestone marks ISRO’s first commercial collaboration with SpaceX, signifying a new chapter in global space partnerships.

The GSAT-N2 satellite, weighing 4,700 kilograms, is designed to provide data and internet services to remote areas across the Indian subcontinent and enable seamless in-flight connectivity. With a mission lifespan of 14 years, GSAT-N2 features advanced technology to support high-throughput communication.

WATCH THE VIRAL VIDEO:

Deployment of @NSIL_India GSAT-N2 confirmed pic.twitter.com/AHYjp9Zn6S

— SpaceX (@SpaceX) November 18, 2024

Filling the Gap in Indian Space Capabilities

ISRO’s Mark-3 launch vehicle can carry payloads up to 4,000 kilograms into a geostationary transfer orbit. However, the GSAT-N2’s weight exceeded this limit, necessitating SpaceX’s Falcon 9 as the launch vehicle. Developed by NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), ISRO’s commercial arm, GSAT-N2 is the most advanced satellite of its kind, operating in the Ka-band and providing a throughput of 48 Gbps.

According to Dr. M. Sankaran, Director of the UR Rao Satellite Centre, “This is India’s highest throughput satellite and the only one exclusively operating in the Ka-band.” The satellite’s payload includes 32 user beams—8 narrow spot beams covering the Northeast region and 24 wide spot beams for the rest of India. These beams are supported by ground stations across the mainland, ensuring wide coverage.

Transforming In-Flight Internet in Indian Airspace

The GSAT-N2 satellite addresses a longstanding issue of in-flight Internet connectivity in Indian airspace. Until recently, flights entering Indian territory had to disable onboard Internet services due to regulatory restrictions. However, recent policy changes now permit Wi-Fi services at altitudes above 3,000 meters, enabling passengers to stay connected during their journeys.

“This homegrown satellite bridges a significant gap for in-flight Internet connectivity over India on the global map,” Dr. Sankaran added. The GSAT-N2’s capabilities are expected to greatly enhance communication infrastructure and bring India closer to global standards for in-flight and remote connectivity.

A Giant Leap for ISRO

The launch represents a leap forward in India’s technological capabilities, combining international collaboration with indigenous advancements. As GSAT-N2 becomes operational, it is set to transform digital connectivity, providing unprecedented Internet access to underserved regions and modernizing Indian aviation communication.

Japan’s LignoSat: How The World’s First Wooden Satellite Could Transform Space Exploration | WATCH

November 5, 2024, 5:25 pm

In a groundbreaking step toward sustainable space exploration, Japanese researchers launched LignoSat, the world’s first wooden satellite, into space on Tuesday. Developed through a collaboration between Kyoto University and homebuilding firm Sumitomo Forestry, this innovative satellite is designed to test the potential of timber for use in lunar and Mars missions. Aboard a SpaceX mission, LignoSat is now en route to the International Space Station (ISS) before its release into an orbit approximately 400 kilometers above Earth.

Demonstrating Timber’s Space Potential

The small, palm-sized LignoSat—named after the Latin word for “wood”—is engineered to demonstrate the durability and applicability of timber in the harsh conditions of space. Takao Doi, a former astronaut and current researcher at Kyoto University, explained that timber could be a sustainable option for building materials in space. “With wood, a renewable resource we can cultivate, we may one day be able to build habitats and workspaces on the moon and Mars,” Doi stated.

WATCH THE VIRAL VIDEO:

Japan is launching first small wooden satellite to test space durability, LignoSat, on Nov. 5 via a SpaceX rocket.pic.twitter.com/CeLeMal4dd

— Mark Foster (@mfosterio) November 4, 2024

Inspired by a 50-year vision of constructing wooden habitats on other planets, Doi’s team designed the satellite using honoki wood, a magnolia species known for its durability and traditionally used in Japanese craftsmanship. Notably, the satellite was constructed without screws or glue, following traditional Japanese woodworking methods. Once deployed, LignoSat will orbit Earth for six months, with sensors onboard tracking its resilience against temperature swings from -100°C to 100°C and measuring radiation impacts on semiconductors.

A Sustainable Alternative to Metal Satellites

Wood offers a unique advantage in space due to its resistance to corrosion in the absence of water and oxygen. As Kyoto University forest science professor Koji Murata noted, “Early 20th-century planes were built with wood, so a wooden satellite is very feasible.” LignoSat’s creators highlight the environmental benefit: while metal satellites generate harmful aluminium oxide upon atmospheric re-entry, wooden satellites would burn up with minimal pollution.

In addition to space exploration, the project showcases wood’s potential industrial applications, with Sumitomo Forestry’s Kenji Kariya citing possible uses in radiation shielding for data centers. If successful, LignoSat could pave the way for more eco-friendly space exploration solutions, potentially reinvigorating the timber industry in the process. “Wood is both timeless and cutting-edge as civilization advances into space,” Kariya concluded.

Boeing Satellite Suffers Critical Failure: Intelsat 33e Declared ‘Total Loss’

October 23, 2024, 10:26 am

In a significant development for the aerospace industry, the Intelsat 33e communications satellite, built by Boeing, has been declared a “total loss” after suffering an in-orbit anomaly on October 19, 2024. The satellite, which had been operational since 2016, malfunctioned unexpectedly, prompting a coordinated response from satellite operator Intelsat, Boeing, and the U.S. Space Force.

Intelsat 33e Suffers Critical Failure

Intelsat reported the failure on Saturday, confirming that the 33e satellite ceased functioning due to an “anomaly.” Despite initial efforts to diagnose the problem, the satellite’s status was ultimately declared irrecoverable. “We are coordinating with the satellite manufacturer, Boeing, and government agencies to analyze data and observations. A Failure Review Board has been convened to complete a comprehensive analysis of the cause of the anomaly,” Intelsat said in a statement. The company also assured customers that efforts to migrate services and restore connectivity are underway, using alternative satellites from the Intelsat fleet and third-party providers.

U.S. Space Force Confirms Breakup

The U.S. Space Force also confirmed the satellite’s breakup in a statement, noting that the disintegration was detected in geostationary orbit. “Currently tracking around 20 associated pieces – analysis ongoing,” the Space Force said, adding that no immediate threats have been observed from the debris.

However, ExoAnalytic Solutions, a satellite-tracking company, reported that it was monitoring as many as 57 pieces of debris. The exact cause of the breakup remains under investigation.

History of Setbacks for Intelsat 33e

The Intelsat 33e satellite, launched in 2016, had been designed to provide communication services across Europe, Asia, and Africa. However, its journey was marred by issues from the start. Shortly after launch, it experienced a propulsion problem, which delayed its arrival in orbit. The satellite suffered a further setback in 2017, which reduced its expected 15-year lifespan by 3.5 years.

This latest incident follows the loss of another Boeing-built satellite, Intelsat 29e, in 2019. The 29e satellite was also declared a total loss after only three years in operation.

Boeing Faces Additional Scrutiny

The failure of the Intelsat 33e adds to Boeing’s recent challenges, including setbacks in its Starliner mission and ongoing legal battles related to the 737 Max plane crashes. The company is currently facing a criminal fraud charge, further intensifying the scrutiny surrounding its aerospace programs.

The investigation into the Intelsat 33e anomaly is expected to shed more light on the technical failures involved, with the Failure Review Board’s findings anticipated in the coming months.

Wayanad In Ruins: Landslide Impact Revealed By Satellite Imagery

August 1, 2024, 5:39 pm

Recent satellite images have highlighted the extensive devastation caused by landslides in the Wayanad district of Kerala, India. The images, captured by advanced Earth observation satellites, provide a stark view of the region’s altered landscape, showcasing the aftermath of intense monsoon rains that triggered the landslides.

Visual Evidence of Destruction

The satellite images reveal large swathes of land scarred by the landslides, with entire hillsides sheared off and debris fields stretching across what were once lush, green landscapes. The visual evidence shows the sheer scale of the destruction, including collapsed structures, blocked roads, and damaged farmlands. The disruption to natural vegetation and the displacement of soil and rocks are clearly visible, illustrating the power and impact of the natural disaster.

Impact on Communities and Environment

The landslides have not only caused significant environmental damage but have also severely affected local communities. The images show areas where homes and infrastructure have been buried or swept away, highlighting the urgent humanitarian needs for those affected. The destruction of farmland and the blockage of transportation routes have further compounded the challenges faced by residents, impacting their livelihoods and access to essential services.

Role of Satellite Imaging in Disaster Response

Satellite imaging plays a crucial role in disaster response and management. These images help authorities assess the extent of the damage quickly and accurately, facilitating efficient deployment of rescue and relief operations. They also aid in identifying areas at risk of further landslides, allowing for preemptive measures to protect vulnerable populations and infrastructure.

The recovery from such extensive landslides will require coordinated efforts in terms of rebuilding infrastructure, restoring agricultural lands, and providing support to displaced families. The satellite data will continue to be invaluable in monitoring ongoing risks, planning rehabilitation projects, and guiding sustainable land management practices to prevent future disasters.

The satellite images of Wayanad landslides offer a sobering glimpse into the destructive power of natural disasters exacerbated by extreme weather events. They underscore the need for comprehensive disaster preparedness and response strategies, as well as the importance of technology in mitigating the impact of such events. As Kerala embarks on the long road to recovery, the detailed information provided by satellite imagery will be an essential tool in rebuilding and enhancing resilience against future threats.

Amit Shah congratulates ISRO on successful launch of XPoSat astronomy satellite

January 1, 2024, 1:52 pm

Union Home Minister Amit Shah extended his heartfelt congratulations to the ISRO scientists for their remarkable achievement on the first day of the New Year 2024.

“Brightening up the cosmos in pursuit of knowledge on the very first day of 2024 you have proven yet again that your might is our pride,” Amit Shah wrote on his X timeline.
“Congratulations to our @isro scientists on the historic launch of specialized astronomy observatory satellite XPoSat to study black holes and neutron stars in our galaxy.”

The X-ray Polarimeter Satellite (XPoSat) was successfully launched at 9.10 am on Monday, and its lift-off proceeded smoothly, marking a significant milestone in India’s space exploration endeavors.

Following the triumphant mission launch, the head of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), S Somanath, delivered a speech to the scientific community. He proudly announced that the PSLV-C58 vehicle had flawlessly positioned the satellite into its designated orbit of 650 km, maintaining a precise inclination of 6 degrees.

“From this point, the orbit of the PSLV will be reduced to a lower orbit, where the upper stage of the PSLV which is now described as POEM will carry out experiments with nine of the onboard payloads and that will take some time,” Somanath added.

Somanath further explained that the PSLV would subsequently be maneuvered to a lower orbit, where the upper stage, known as POEM, would conduct experiments with nine onboard payloads. This process will require some time to complete. Notably, this mission marks India’s first foray into the study of black holes, a domain previously explored by other nations.

Somanath emphasized that the development of this satellite spanned seven years, with the aim of fostering a cohort of 100 scientists capable of comprehending and contributing to the global understanding of black holes.

India’s achievements in the field of space exploration have been remarkable, with significant milestones reached in 2023, including the successful soft landing of Chandrayaan-3 on the moon’s south pole and the launch of Aditya-L1, India’s inaugural solar mission.

India achieved remarkable success in 2023, as it demonstrated its exceptional capabilities by accomplishing the soft landing of Chandrayaan-3 on the moon’s south pole and launching Aditya-L1, its inaugural solar mission. These significant milestones not only solidified India’s position in the global space industry but also ignited the growth of the private space sector within the country.

Among other achievements, India has set ambitious goals for the future. The Gaganyaan Mission is scheduled for 2024-2025, aiming to send Indian astronauts into space. Additionally, India plans to establish the ‘Bharatiya Antariksha Station’ by 2035, further expanding its presence in space exploration. Furthermore, India aspires to send its first astronaut to the Moon by 2040, marking a historic achievement for the nation.

ISRO successfully introduces SSLV to the World

February 10, 2023, 3:06 pm

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched the second developmental flight of the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV-D2) from Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh. The launch took place at 9.18 am, Friday. The SSLV-D2 successfully put into their intended orbit Earth Observation Satellite, Janus-1 and Chennai-based space startup SpaceKidz’s AzaadiSAT-2.

The 34-metre tall SSLV-D2 weighing 120 ton took off from the first launch pad of Satish Dhawan Space Centre. The three staged SSLV-D2 powered by solid fuel also has a velocity trimming module powered by liquid fuel for precise injection of satellites. AIR correspondent reports that it was a successful flight of SSLV D2 with the precise placement of the satellites in the destined planar orbit.

Scientists and the invitees gathered at ISRO to witness the event were in a jubilant mood even as SSLV roared into the sunny skies like the knight shining in armour. Anxious moments prevailed during the three stage separation of the rocket but just in the destined time the satellites were placed in orbit. The earth observation satellite EOS 07 will be used for earth observation purposes. Janus 1 sent by ANTARIS from the United States will feature five different payloads running on its satellite software once in orbit. Azaadi Sat -2 designed by the students of Space Kidz India will demonstrate low range and amateur radio communication capabilities.

It was the second developmental flight of Small Satellite Launch Vehicle by the space agency. The first test flight of SSLV, on August 9, had ended in partial failure as the rocket failed to inject its satellite payload in their intended orbits.

SSLV caters to the launch of up to 500 kg satellites to low earth orbits on ‘launch-on-demand’ basis. It provides low-cost access to space, offers low turn-around time and flexibility in accommodating multiple satellites, and demands minimal launch infrastructure.

Amit Shah terms successful launch of broadband satellites as a “remarkable day” for India’s space programme.

October 23, 2022, 2:53 pm

Amit Shah terms the successful launch of broadband satellites as a “remarkable day” for India’s space programme.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah termed the successful launch of the Indian Space Research Organisation’s heaviest rocket with 36 Oneweb satellites as a “landmark day for India’s space programme.” 36 communication satellites have been launched by ISRO on its heaviest rocket from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Andhra Pradesh’s Sriharikota. Shah stated that India stepped into a new era of self-reliance with the successful launch of its heaviest rocket, LVM3.

“A landmark day for India’s space program!” India stepped into a new era of self-reliance with the successful launch of its heaviest rocket, LVM3, with 36 OneWeb satellites on board. “Congratulations to our scientists and the entire team,” Shah said in a tweet.

PM Modi also congratulated the ISRO and said that the launch exemplifies Atmanirbharta and enhances India’s competitive edge in the global commercial launch service market.

“Congratulations to NSIL, IN-SPACe, and ISRO on the successful launch of our heaviest launch vehicle, LVM3, with 36 OneWeb satellites meant for global connectivity.” PM Modi said in a tweet that LVM3 “exemplifies Atmanirbharta & enhances India’s competitive edge in the global commercial launch service market.”
A special pooja was conducted by ISRO Chairman S Somnath on Saturday morning at Sri Chengalamma Parameshwari Devi Temple at Sullurpeta in the Tirupati district for the success of the GSLV Mark-3 rocket launch.

ISRO’s rocket LVM3 will carry 36 satellites of the private communications firm OneWeb, Somanath said earlier on Saturday evening.
“A 24-hour countdown to the launch has started. Another set of 36 OneWeb satellites will be launched by the LVM3 in the first half of next year, “he said.”

“The GSLV Mark-3 rocket countdown process will continue. The GSLV Mark-3 rocket will be launched from the second launch pad at 00.07 midnight today. GSLV Mark-3 is being launched with 36 satellites in the first phase as part of the agreement of 108 satellites with the UK. Thirty-six satellites are purely for communications. “PSLV and SLV rockets will be tested this year,” he added.
“16 out of 36 satellites have been successfully separated safely, and the remaining 20 satellites will be separated,” he said.
“We have already started the (Diwali) celebration. 16 out of 36 satellites have successfully separated safely, and the remaining 20 satellites will be separated. The data will come a little later and the operation of observing is underway, “ISRO Chairman said post-launch.

Somanath praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for reaching this milestone “This mission is historic. The support of PM Modi, who wants LVM3 to enter the commercial sector with NSIL at the vanguard, made it feasible to operationalize our launch vehicles for the purposes of exploring and extending the commercial realm. ”
Somanath added that ISRO’s Chandrayan-3 mission is anticipated to launch in June of the following year.

“Chandrayaan-3 is almost ready. Final integration and testing are almost complete. Still, some more tests are pending, so we want to do them a little later. There were two slots available, one in February and another in June. We would like to take the June (2023) slot for the launch,” he said.

Russia has launched a navigation satellite successfully

October 10, 2022, 12:18 pm

Russia launched its Soyuz-2.1b rocket carrying the GLONASS-K navigation system from a northern cosmodrome on Monday, according to Interfax, citing the defence ministry.

“Combat crews of the Space Forces …. successfully launched a Soyuz-2.1b medium-class launch vehicle with space navigation GLONASS-K system,” the agency cited the ministry as saying.

The GLONASS-K satellite was launched on a Soyuz rocket from the Plesetsk Cosmodrome, about 800 kilometres (500 miles) north of Moscow.

GLONASS-K is a navigation satellite designed to be a component of Russia’s GLONASS radio-based satellite navigation system. Russia has spent billions of dollars over the last two decades developing the GLONASS system, which is seen as a potential competitor to the United States’ global positioning system (GPS).