ISRO begins countdown for 1st launch of 2026 with PSLV-C62 mission
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has commenced a 22-hour countdown at 12.48 pm for its first launch mission of 2026, ‘PSLV-C62/EOS-N1’. This highly anticipated mission marks the beginning of a new year of space exploration for India, with the PSLV rocket set to place the EOS-N1 Earth observation satellite and 15 co-passenger satellites into orbit.
The PSLV, or Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle, is ISRO’s workhorse launch vehicle, which has completed an impressive 63 flights to date. Its notable missions include the Chandrayaan-1, India’s first lunar mission, which was launched in 2008. The PSLV holds the record for launching 104 satellites in a single mission, a feat that showcases its reliability and versatility.
The EOS-N1 Earth observation satellite is the primary payload of the PSLV-C62 mission. Weighing approximately 450 kg, the satellite is designed to provide high-resolution images of the Earth’s surface, which will be used for a variety of applications, including land use mapping, crop monitoring, and disaster management. The satellite is equipped with advanced sensors and cameras that will capture images in multiple spectral bands, allowing for detailed analysis of the Earth’s surface.
In addition to the EOS-N1 satellite, the PSLV-C62 mission will also carry 15 co-passenger satellites into orbit. These satellites belong to various countries, including the United States, Germany, and Israel, and will be used for a range of purposes, including technology demonstration, scientific research, and Earth observation.
The PSLV-C62 mission is a significant milestone for ISRO, as it marks the first launch of the year 2026. The success of this mission will pave the way for a busy year of space exploration, with several high-profile missions planned, including the launch of the Aditya-L1 solar mission and the Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission.
The PSLV rocket is a reliable and versatile launch vehicle that has been used for a wide range of missions, from Earth observation to space exploration. Its ability to carry multiple satellites into orbit makes it an attractive option for satellite operators and space agencies around the world.
The countdown for the PSLV-C62 mission began at 12.48 pm, and the rocket is scheduled to lift off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, at 10.48 am on the next day. The mission will be tracked by ISRO’s network of ground stations and telemetry systems, which will provide real-time updates on the rocket’s performance and the status of the satellites.
As the world watches with bated breath, ISRO is all set to make history once again with the PSLV-C62 mission. The success of this mission will be a testament to India’s growing capabilities in space technology and its commitment to exploring the vast expanse of space.
In conclusion, the PSLV-C62 mission is a significant milestone for ISRO, marking the first launch of the year 2026. With the PSLV rocket set to place the EOS-N1 Earth observation satellite and 15 co-passenger satellites into orbit, this mission is a testament to India’s growing capabilities in space technology. As we wait with anticipation for the launch, we can’t help but feel a sense of pride and excitement for the incredible achievements of ISRO.
News Source: https://x.com/PTI_News/status/2010285538843173209
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