The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is gearing up for an important satellite launch. On May 18, 2025, at 6:59 AM Indian Standard Time (IST), ISRO will launch the PSLV-C61 mission, which will carry the EOS-09 satellite, also known as RISAT-1B, into space. The launch will take place from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.
The EOS-09 satellite is designed to enhance India’s ability to observe the Earth using advanced radar technology. It uses a sophisticated C-band synthetic aperture radar (SAR), which allows it to capture detailed images of the Earth’s surface in any weather, whether it is day or night. This feature is essential for various applications including monitoring agriculture, managing forests, responding to disasters, planning urban development, and ensuring national security.
This mission comes in light of recent security incidents, making its deployment a top priority for the Indian government. Officials emphasize that the satellite will improve surveillance along India’s sensitive borders and coastlines, supporting national defense efforts.
ISRO plans to expand its satellite network significantly. Over the next five years, the agency aims to deploy a constellation of 52 satellites. This effort will involve active participation from the private sector, strengthening India’s space-based surveillance capabilities further. Pawan Kumar Goenka, Chairman of the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe), stated that while India has solid capabilities already, ongoing enhancements are necessary.
The EOS-09 satellite, weighing around 1,710 kilograms, will join a growing network of Earth observation satellites, increasing the real-time coverage across India’s vast landscape.
As the PSLV-C61 mission approaches, ISRO continues to showcase its commitment to utilizing space technologies for both civilian and strategic purposes, marking yet another milestone in India’s journey into space.
-Rashmi Kumari
