India’s EOS-09 Satellite Launch Fails Due to Third-Stage Malfunction

India’s latest satellite mission, EOS-09, suffered a setback as the launch vehicle encountered a technical failure during its third-stage propulsion phase. The Indian Space Research Organisation confirmed that the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle veered off its intended trajectory, preventing the satellite from reaching its designated orbit.  

 

Mission Breakdown:  

- The PSLV-C61 rocket lifted off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota at 5:59 am IST, performing nominally through its first two stages.  

- A sudden drop in chamber pressure was detected 203 seconds into flight, leading to an abrupt deviation in the third-stage propulsion system.  

- The EOS-09 satellite, equipped with advanced radar imaging capabilities, was intended to enhance India’s earth observation network, supporting agriculture, disaster management, and defense surveillance.  

- ISRO has formed a failure analysis committee to investigate the anomaly, reviewing manufacturing records and test protocols to determine the exact cause.  

- Despite the setback, ISRO remains committed to its ambitious space program, with four additional PSLV launches scheduled for later this year.  

 

Sources: Firstpost, India Today, NewsBytes, MSN News, OneIndia, Pakistan Today