The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is preparing to return to the launch pad after a significant gap, with the GSLV-F17 rocket scheduled to lift off early on Friday. The mission, set for 2:55 am IST on September 4, will take place from the Second Launch Pad at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. This launch aims to mark the end of an eight-month period without any launches in India’s space programme.

This will be the 19th flight of India’s Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle. The GSLV-F17 has gained a reputation at ISRO for its inconsistent performances during its earlier missions, often referred to as the “naughty boy” due to a history that includes numerous setbacks. Out of its first 18 flights, six did not achieve full mission success.

Significance of EOS-05 Mission

The upcoming mission holds particular importance as EOS-05, also recognised as GISAT-1A, is set to become India’s first imaging satellite to operate from geosynchronous orbit. Unlike traditional Earth observation satellites that operate in low-Earth orbit and can observe specific areas only during certain passes, EOS-05 will function from approximately 36,000 kilometres above Earth. This elevation allows for continual observation of vast regions.

It is important to note that GSLV-F17 will not place EOS-05 directly into its final orbit. Instead, it will launch the satellite into a Sub-Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (Sub-GTO). Following this, the satellite itself will be responsible for using its onboard propulsion system to gradually ascend and achieve its designated operational orbit.

This launch signifies a crucial second attempt by ISRO to establish India’s capabilities in geosynchronous imaging, following the unsuccessful GISAT mission launched in August 2021 aboard GSLV-F10, which faced an anomaly in its cryogenic upper stage, preventing the satellite from reaching orbit. Therefore, the stakes for this mission are considerable, extending beyond a routine Earth observation launch.

Potential Impact on Earth Observation

If successful, the launch will not only restore ISRO’s operational momentum after several months of inactivity but will also mark a significant advancement in India’s space-based imaging capabilities. ISRO expect the EOS-05 satellite to provide critical support for various applications, including weather monitoring, disaster management, environmental observation, agriculture, and tracking natural phenomena such as cyclones, floods, and forest fires.

The capability of the satellite to repeatedly observe the Indian subcontinent and its adjoining areas could greatly enhance India’s Earth observation infrastructure and contribute to a more informed approach to environmental and disaster management. As the countdown nears completion at Sriharikota, attention is focused on the early-morning launch.

For ISRO, the launch of GSLV-F17 holds significance beyond a typical mission. It represents a pivotal opportunity to conclude a protracted period without launches and initiate a new era in India’s capacity for space-based imaging, expanding the potential for future missions in this domain.

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