The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will begin its 2026 launch calendar with the PSLV-C62 mission, scheduled for January 12 from Sriharikota. This will be ISRO’s first mission of the year, highlighting its continued emphasis on strategic, commercial, and international satellite launches.
ISRO to Begin 2026 with PSLV-C62 Launch from Sriharikota
EOS-N1 as Primary Strategic Payload
The primary payload onboard PSLV-C62 is EOS-N1, an advanced Earth Observation imaging satellite developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
EOS-N1 is designed for strategic surveillance and reconnaissance purposes and is expected to significantly enhance India’s monitoring and imaging capabilities. The satellite will be placed into its designated orbit using the highly reliable Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV).
Mission Timeline and Launch Details
According to ISRO, the launch is scheduled for 10:17 am IST from the First Launch Pad at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre.
ISRO has confirmed that:
- All pre-launch preparations are progressing as planned
- Countdown activities will follow the standard PSLV launch protocol
International and Commercial Payloads Onboard
In addition to EOS-N1, the PSLV-C62 mission will also carry multiple international and commercial payloads, reinforcing India’s growing role in global launch services.
Key payload details:
- Kestrel Initial Demonstrator, developed by a Spain-based startup, which will remain attached to the PS-4 stage
- 17 additional commercial payloads from startups and research institutions across:
- India
- Mauritius
- Luxembourg
- UAE
- Singapore
- Europe
- United States
This diversity highlights PSLV’s status as a trusted launch vehicle worldwide.
Public Viewing and Registration Process
ISRO has announced that the public can witness the PSLV-C62 launch from the Launch View Gallery at Sriharikota by registering online.
Key requirements:
- Online registration
- Valid government-issued ID (Aadhaar / Driving Licence)
- Mobile number and email ID
The initiative aims to increase public engagement and awareness about India’s space missions.
Exam-Oriented Key Facts
- PSLV-C62 is ISRO’s first mission of 2026
- Launch date: January 12, 2026
- Launch time: 10:17 am IST
- Primary payload: EOS-N1 Earth Observation Satellite
- EOS-N1 developed by DRDO
- Launch site: Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota
- PSLV is ISRO’s workhorse launch vehicle
Question & Answer
Q1. Which mission will mark ISRO’s first space launch of 2026?
(a) GSLV-F15
(b) SSLV-D3
(c) PSLV-C62
(d) LVM-3
Answer: PSLV-C62
Q2. What is the primary payload of the PSLV-C62 mission?
(a) Cartosat-3
(b) RISAT-2BR
(c) EOS-N1
(d) Oceansat-4
Answer: EOS-N1
Q3. EOS-N1 satellite has been developed by which organisation?
(a) ISRO
(b) DRDO
(c) HAL
(d) BEL
Answer: DRDO
Q4. From where will the PSLV-C62 mission be launched?
(a) Thiruvananthapuram
(b) Bengaluru
(c) Sriharikota
(d) Alwaye
Answer: Sriharikota
Q5. PSLV is primarily used by ISRO for launching which type of satellites?
(a) Navigation satellites
(b) Earth observation satellites
(c) Communication satellites only
(d) Human spaceflight missions
Answer: Earth observation satellites
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