PSLV-C61 launch countdown begins

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has officially begun the 22-hour countdown for its upcoming PSLV-C61 mission, which is scheduled to launch at 5:59 am on May 18, 2025, from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. The countdown began at 7:59 am on May 17, marking the final phase of preparation for what will be the 63rd flight of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) and ISRO’s 101st mission overall.What is EOS-09 (RISAT-1B)?The PSLV-C61 rocket will carry EOS-09 (also known as RISAT-1B), a next-generation Earth Observation Satellite weighing around 1,696 kilograms. The satellite is designed to provide high-resolution, all-weather imaging of the Earth’s surface, which is crucial for a wide range of applications including agriculture, forestry, disaster management, urban planning, and national security. Once deployed, EOS-09 will join India’s growing fleet of Earth observation satellites such as Resourcesat, Cartosat, and RISAT-2B, significantly enhancing the country’s remote sensing capabilities.Launch planThe PSLV-C61 will complete its mission in approximately 17 minutes, placing the satellite into a Sun Synchronous Polar Orbit (SSPO). After separation, Orbit Change Thrusters (OCTs) will be used to make fine adjustments to the satellite’s orbit. The mission life of EOS-09 is expected to be five years, but ISRO has also planned a controlled de-orbiting process to ensure the satellite burns up safely in Earth’s atmosphere after its operational life, reducing space debris and supporting sustainable space practices.Mission lifeAccording to ISRO, the EOS-09 satellite is a repeat of the EOS-04 mission launched in 2022 and acts as a follow-on to RISAT-1. Though the satellite was developed before the current year, its capabilities are being seen as a strategic asset in India's space-based Earth monitoring initiatives. The satellite will provide real-time, round-the-clock imaging, making it a vital tool for government agencies and researchers alike.As anticipation builds for the launch, ISRO has urged viewers to follow official channels for live coverage, images, and updates. With EOS-09, India is poised to take another major step forward in its space-based Earth observation and remote sensing programme.With inputs from PTI

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