ISRO to launch EOS-5 satellite via GSLV F17 rocket on September 4

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is scheduled to launch the EOS-5 earth observation satellite on September 4 from Sriharikota. The mission will utilize the GSLV F17 rocket to place the satellite into a geostationary orbit at an altitude of approximately 36,000 kilometers.

Once operational, EOS-5 will provide continuous monitoring of the Indian landmass and surrounding maritime regions. The satellite is designed to provide rapid data on natural disasters, including cyclones, floods, cloudbursts, and forest fires, benefiting disaster management teams, meteorologists, and security agencies.

This mission follows recent challenges for ISRO, including two consecutive failures of the PSLV rocket in 2025 and early 2026. However, officials note that the GSLV Mk II uses a different engine and propulsion system than the PSLV, reducing the likelihood that previous PSLV issues will impact this launch. The mission also seeks to redeem a previous attempt in August 2021, when a GSLV-F10 mission failed due to a technical fault in the indigenous cryogenic upper stage.