India Enhances Earth Observation Capabilities with PSLV-C61 and EOS-09 Launch

Sriharikota, September 2, 2023 — Marking another landmark in its expanding space program, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched the PSLV-C61 mission, placing the EOS-09 satellite and several smaller payloads into orbit. The mission reflects India’s growing technical prowess in satellite imaging, defense support, and commercial space applications.

EOS-09: A New Eye in the Sky

At the heart of the mission was EOS-09, an Earth Observation Satellite engineered to deliver high-resolution images for a wide range of uses:

• Mapping land and forests for environmental analysis

• Monitoring agricultural activity, including crop health and irrigation

• Urban development planning and disaster response

• Providing strategic support for defense and surveillance needs

EOS-09 joins a network of Indian satellites focused on enhancing real-time monitoring of natural resources and supporting national security operations.

Secondary Payloads: Encouraging Innovation

In addition to the primary satellite, PSLV-C61 also deployed several smaller satellites. These were developed by Indian start-ups and academic institutions, launched under the guidance of IN-SPACe and NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) — agencies that represent India’s commitment to privatizing and democratizing access to space.

Such collaborative missions are designed to foster innovation and give smaller players a role in India’s space ecosystem.

PSLV-C61: Precision Without Strap-Ons

The launch used the PSLV in its ‘Core Alone’ configuration, a version of the rocket without external boosters. This streamlined variant is suitable for lighter payloads and allows more efficient launches with reduced cost and complexity.

The success of PSLV-C61 once again highlighted the rocket’s reliability and ISRO’s mastery in precise orbital deployment — a crucial asset in the competitive global satellite launch market.

Mission Budget: Delivering Value

While ISRO has not disclosed detailed figures for the PSLV-C61 mission, estimates based on past projects suggest a total cost in the range of ₹180 to ₹220 crore INR (approximately $22–27 million USD). This includes the cost of satellite development, launch vehicle construction, and ground operations.

ISRO’s reputation for high efficiency at low cost continues to position it as a preferred partner for space missions worldwide.

The Team Behind the Launch

The mission’s success was the result of coordinated efforts across several ISRO divisions:

• Dr. S. Somanath, ISRO Chairman, provided strategic leadership.

• Dr. B. N. Ramakrishna, Director of SDSC SHAR, oversaw ground operations and launch preparations.

• V. Narayanan, head of the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre, ensured flawless engine performance.

Supporting teams from the U R Rao Satellite Centre (URSC), ISRO Propulsion Complex, and Satellite Applications Centre (SAC) contributed to systems integration, satellite design, and telemetry.

Broader Implications for India’s Space Program

The PSLV-C61 mission signifies more than just a technical achievement:

• Improved self-reliance in Earth monitoring reduces dependence on foreign data.

• Opportunities for commercialization expand through NSIL and IN-SPACe partnerships.

• Innovation from academia and start-ups gets a national platform.

• India’s stature as a global space player is reinforced with every successful launch.

Looking Ahead

With EOS-09 now operational, ISRO continues to pave the way for future missions, including the high-profile Gaganyaan human spaceflight program and continued lunar exploration following Chandrayaan-3.

This mission affirms India’s vision for a robust, inclusive, and forward-looking space sector — proving once again that space is not the limit, but just the beginning.

---