PSLV-C61 lifted off successfully, but anomaly in third stage led to mission failure; ISRO promises detailed analysis

Sriharikota | May 18, 2025 India’s 101st satellite mission suffered a significant setback on Sunday after the Earth Observation Satellite EOS-09 failed to achieve its intended orbit

India's 101st satellite mission suffered a setback on Sunday as the Earth Observation Satellite EOS-09 failed to achieve its intended orbit following launch aboard the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C61).

The launch from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota began as planned, with ISRO confirming that performance was normal through the second stage. However, a critical issue during the third stage led to an anomaly, disrupting the mission's success.

“Today’s PSLV-C61 performance was normal till the 2nd stage. Due to an observation in the 3rd stage, the mission could not be accomplished,” ISRO stated in a post on X.

"There will be a technical review to assess the third stage failure, and findings will be released accordingly," the agency added.

This was the 63rd flight of the PSLV and the 27th with its XL configuration, continuing its legacy as ISRO's workhorse launcher.

EOS-09, equipped with C-band synthetic aperture radar (SAR), was designed to operate in a Sun Synchronous Polar Orbit (SSPO), offering all-weather, day-and-night imaging capabilities.

The payloads are part of a broader constellation that provides India with critical environmental and security monitoring systems, scientist W Selvamurthy explained.

"This satellite would have strengthened applications in agriculture, forestry, and even military surveillance. I congratulate all ISRO teams and partner industries," he added.

The payloads are part of a broader constellation that provides India with critical environmental and security monitoring systems, scientist W Selvamurthy explained.

"This satellite would have strengthened applications in agriculture, forestry, and even military surveillance. I congratulate all ISRO teams and partner industries," he added.

Despite the setback, many families and children who traveled from across the country to witness the launch were impressed by the event.

"We came all the way but couldn’t see the launch. Still, I feel proud just being here," said a child from Ranipet.

Another visitor, a student who aspires to join ISRO, expressed disappointment but also determination.

"I came 150 kilometers hoping to see the launch. I’m disappointed today, but I’ll be back next time. I want to become the ISRO Chairman one day," he shared.

This incident marks a rare instance of failure for the PSLV, which has a nearly unblemished record. The anomaly will be part of the learning process for advanced space missions.