ISRO Launches GSLV-F17 Carrying EOS-05 Satellite from Sriharikota
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched the GSLV-F17/EOS-05 mission from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in the early hours of Friday, September 4, 2026. The rocket carried the EOS-05 Earth observation satellite into space during a pre-dawn operation.
What Happened
The 51.7-metre-tall GSLV-F17 launch vehicle lifted off from the Second Launch Pad at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, situated approximately 135 kilometres from Chennai. The launch occurred at its scheduled time of 2:55 am IST amid rainy weather conditions. The launch followed the completion of a 27-hour countdown that officially commenced at 23:30 hours on Wednesday.
Key Highlights
- Mission: GSLV-F17 carrying the EOS-05 Earth observation spacecraft.
- Launch Facility: Second Launch Pad, Satish Dhawan Space Centre, roughly 135 km from Chennai.
- Launch Timing: 2:55 am IST on Friday, September 4, 2026.
- Vehicle Dimensions: The GSLV-F17 stands at 51.7 metres in height.
- Countdown Duration: 27 hours, beginning at 23:30 hours on Wednesday.
Why This Matters
According to official sources, the EOS-05 spacecraft serves as an advanced Earth observation platform and represents India’s first ever imaging satellite designated to operate from the Geosynchronous orbit.
What to Watch Next
Further official updates from ISRO will clarify the satellite’s orbital positioning and deployment milestones in the Geosynchronous orbit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What payload was carried by the GSLV-F17 rocket?
The rocket carried EOS-05, an Earth observation satellite developed by ISRO.
Where did the launch occur?
The mission launched from the Second Launch Pad at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, located around 135 kilometres from Chennai.
What is the significance of the EOS-05 satellite?
According to official sources, EOS-05 will be India’s first ever imaging satellite deployed to observe from a Geosynchronous orbit.
Source: Based on reporting from The Hindu and official communications from ISRO.