Nellore: India is all set to script another chapter in its space journey with the launch of EOS-09, the 101st mission in its Space programme, scheduled for Sunday 5.59am.The satellite would be launched aboard PSLV-C61 from the first launch pad at Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. The 22-hour countdown begins at 7:59am Saturday. This mission marks the 63rd flight of the PSLV and the 27th using its powerful XL configuration, known for its reliability and versatility. Standing 44.5 metres tall with a liftoff mass of 321 tonnes, the PSLV-C61 will carry EOS-09 into a Sun synchronous polar orbit— ideal for earth observation missions. Once EOS-09 is deployed, ISRO will use orbit change thrusters to lower the altitude of the fourth stage, followed by passivation to minimize space debris — highlighting ISRO’s commitment to sustainable space practices. EOS-09 is a cutting-edge earth observation satellite equipped with a synthetic aperture radar, offering all-weather, day-and-night imaging capabilities. Weighing 1696.24kg and designed for a mission life of five years, the satellite would support a range of applications — from agriculture and forestry to disaster management. ISRO said EOS-09 would play a vital role in enhancing surveillance along the India-Pakistan border. The timing of its deployment is significant, coming close on the heels of the recent Operation Sindoor—a high-intensity counter-terror mission launched in response to the murder of civilians in Pahalgam. Importantly, EOS-09 carries dedicated deorbiting fuel, ensuring a safe and controlled end-of-life disposal — a growing necessity in modern space missions.
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