India Launches First Sub-Geosynchronous Earth Observation Satellite
Sep 04, 2026
India successfully launched its first imaging Earth observation satellite into a sub-geosynchronous orbit early today, marking a significant milestone in the country’s space programme.
The EOS-05 satellite was launched aboard the GSLV-F17 rocket from the second launch pad of the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota at 2:55 am. The launch followed a smooth 27-hour countdown, with the 2,367-kg satellite successfully placed into orbit about 18 minutes after liftoff.
The advanced Earth observation satellite is designed to provide near-real-time imagery to support a range of applications, including agriculture, disaster management and other national development programmes.
ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan said the mission would further strengthen India’s Earth observation capabilities and enhance the delivery of satellite-based services to the country.
The successful mission adds another major achievement to India’s growing capabilities in space-based Earth monitoring and applications.
