The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is all set to launch its 101st satellite, EOS-09, aboard the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C61) from the First Launch Pad at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. The launch is scheduled for 5:59 a.m. on Sunday, 18 May.

This mission will mark the 63rd flight of the PSLV and the 27th time ISRO is using the PSLV-XL configuration. EOS-09 will be placed into a Sun Synchronous Polar Orbit (SSPO), continuing ISRO’s use of the PSLV platform for precision deployments across varied payloads and altitudes.

ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan confirmed, “The launch is scheduled for 5:59 am from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.”

What Is EOS-09 and why it matters
EOS-09 is a follow-up mission to EOS-04 and the earlier RISAT-1 satellite. It is designed to deliver consistent remote sensing data, especially for operational users needing real-time imagery.

Former ISRO scientist Manish Purohit explained the satellite’s broader implications. “This launch is strategically timed,” he said.

“It strengthens monitoring at borders and coasts, particularly with respect to sensitive areas. The satellite can detect ingress or suspicious movement deemed vital in anti-terror operations, especially after the recent Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor,” he added.

The satellite uses C-band synthetic aperture radar (SAR), enabling it to take high-resolution images under all weather conditions, day or night. This makes it a powerful tool for sectors like agriculture, forestry, disaster management, and defence.