The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on Sunday launched its 101st satellite, EOS-09, aboard the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C61), achieving a significant milestone. In a post on X, ISRO stated, “LIFTOFF! ISRO’s 101st launch mission takes flight aboard PSLV-C61.” The 101st launch was done with PSLV-C61, carrying an Earth Observation Satellite, named as EOS-09, which will be put in a Sun Synchronous Polar Orbit (SSPO).
EAS-09 Enhances India’s Reliable Remote Sensing Data
After the EOS-09 satellite is deployed, Orbit Change Thrusters (OCT) will be used to lower the altitude of the PS4 stage. This will be followed by passivation, a measure aimed at reducing the stage’s orbital life and ensuring responsible space operations. EOS-09 is designed to deliver continuous and reliable remote sensing data for use in various operational sectors.
#WATCH | Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launches PSLV-C61, which carries the EOS-09 (Earth Observation Satellite-09) into a SSPO orbit, from Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.
EOS-09 is a repeat satellite of EOS-04, designed with the mission objective to ensure remote… pic.twitter.com/4HVMZzXhP0
— ANI (@ANI) May 18, 2025
Notably, this launch is also aligned with promoting sustainability and carrying out responsible space operations, as the EOS-09 is equipped with deorbiting fuel for safely disposing it off after the mission.
This is the 63rd flight of the PSLV rocket, and the 27th using the PSLV-XL, completing a total 100 launches before May 18. “This mission continues the PSLV’s record of delivering reliable performance across a wide range of payloads and orbits,” read a statement from ISRO.
What Is EAS-09?
EOS-09 is an advanced Earth observation satellite equipped with C-band synthetic aperture radar technology. It can capture high-resolution images of the Earth’s surface under all weather conditions, day or night. This capability enhances India’s surveillance and management systems across multiple sectors.
Earlier on Saturday, Scientist W Selvamurthy congratulated the ISRO scientists, technicians, and industries associated with the space organisation for the launch of the satellite. Underlining the satellites’ importance, he mentioned that EOS-09 is part of a constellation of satellites that will have applications in agriculture, forestry, disaster management, or even for strategic and military applications.