Hyderabad: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to open its 2026 launch calendar in style as PSLV-C62 lifts off today carrying the advanced earth-observation satellite EOS N-1 ‘Anvesha’, along with 16 payloads, from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota.
The launch is scheduled for 10:17 am from the First Launch Pad, following a 22.5-hour countdown. The mission marks the return of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) after its setback in May 2025, adding to the significance of today’s flight.
The primary payload, ‘Anvesha’, is a hyperspectral earth-observation satellite developed by DRDO’s Instruments Research & Development Establishment (IRDE). Equipped with cutting-edge hyperspectral imaging technology, the satellite is expected to significantly strengthen India’s capabilities in resource mapping, environmental monitoring, and strategic applications.
Alongside Anvesha, PSLV-C62 will deploy 14 co-passenger satellites into a Sun-synchronous orbit, including small satellites from the UK, Brazil, and Nepal, as well as experimental payloads from Indian startups. The mission is being undertaken by NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), ISRO’s commercial arm.
Among the standout payloads is KID, developed by Spanish startup Orbital Paradigm, designed to return to Earth after completing its space mission. Another key payload is AyulSat, developed by Indian company OrbitAID, which will test in-orbit satellite refuelling technology—a critical step towards future space servicing missions.
Adding to the mission’s diversity, five small satellites developed by Indian startup Dhruva Space will also be deployed, underlining ISRO’s growing collaboration with the private sector.
