🚀 1. What isro Is Launching First in 2026
India’s space agency, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), is scheduled to kick off 2026 with its first launch — the PSLV‑C62 mission from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (Sriharikota) on January 12, 2026 at ~10:17–10:18 AM IST.
The rocket involved is the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) — one of ISRO’s most reliable workhorses for Earth‑observation and multi‑satellite missions.
🛰️ 2. The Main Payload — EOS‑N1 / Anvesha
The primary satellite aboard PSLV‑C62 is EOS‑N1, also known by its project name Anvesha. It’s an advanced Earth‑observation or “eye in the sky” satellite designed to monitor Earth’s surface with high‑resolution imaging capabilities.
Though isro hasn’t released full technical details publicly yet, reports explain that EOS‑N1 carries hyperspectral imaging sensors, which means it captures images in hundreds of narrow wavelengths. This allows it to identify materials and patterns on the ground with great precision — far beyond regular photography.
🎯 Why that matters:
- It boosts surveillance and border monitoring.
- It supports agriculture, water & resource mapping.
- It enhances environmental tracking and disaster management.
In media, EOS‑N1 is being described as another “eye in the sky” for india — meaning it will strengthen India’s space‑based monitoring of its own territory and strategic assets.
📦 3. Secondary Satellites on Board
Along with EOS‑N1, the PSLV will carry multiple co‑passenger satellites — around 18 in total — from a mix of indian and international customers. These include:
- Small experimental CubeSats,
- Technology demonstration satellites,
- Educational or commercial payloads.
This sort of multi‑satellite launch showcases ISRO’s growing role as a global launch provider and partner for international space efforts.
📌 4. A Return to Flight for PSLV
This mission also marks a return to operational flight for PSLV after a mid‑flight anomaly in 2025, where one satellite was lost due to a third‑stage issue. A successful PSLV‑C62 flight will restore confidence in the trusted launcher.
🌍 5. Bigger Picture: India’s Space Plans in 2026
While PSLV‑C62 is the first launch, it’s just the start of a busy 2026 for ISRO:
- There are plans for multiple launches, including Gaganyaan uncrewed test flights (early steps toward human spaceflight).
- Other Earth observation and technology missions are in the pipeline later this year.
This reflects India’s growing ambitions in space, from surveillance and environmental monitoring to human space exploration.
📌 In Summary: Why This Matters
✔️ PSLV‑C62 is ISRO’s first launch of 2026 — launching on Jan 12, 2026.
✔️ It carries EOS‑N1 (“Anvesha”), a next‑generation Earth‑observation satellite — India’s latest “eye in the sky.”
✔️ Its capabilities will help in surveillance, resource mapping, environment monitoring, agriculture and disaster response.
✔️ The mission also includes 18 ride‑along satellites from india and abroad.
Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.
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