The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launched GSLV-F17 on 4 September 2026 from the Second Launch Pad at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. The 51.7-metre-tall rocket carried the 2,367 kg EOS-05 satellite and placed it in a Sub-Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit about 18 to 19 minutes after liftoff.
GSLV Mission Profile
GSLV stands for Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle, a three-stage launch vehicle used by India for placing satellites into geosynchronous transfer orbits. GSLV-F17 was ISRO’s 19th GSLV mission and the 107th launch from Sriharikota.
EOS-05 Satellite
EOS-05 is an Earth observation satellite designed to operate from a geosynchronous orbit at about 36,000 km altitude. ISRO stated that the satellite is intended to monitor the Indian subcontinent and transmit real-time images every 30 minutes during its expected nine-year operational life.
Launch Site and Orbit
The Satish Dhawan Space Centre is India’s primary spaceport and is located on Sriharikota island in Andhra Pradesh. The Second Launch Pad at the centre supports orbital launches of PSLV and GSLV class rockets, and the Sub-Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit is a standard transfer orbit used for satellites headed towards geosynchronous positions.
Important Facts for Exams
- ISRO was established in 1969 and functions under the Department of Space, Government of India.
- The Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle is used for heavier payloads than the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle.
- Geosynchronous orbit lies at an altitude of about 35,786 km above the Earth’s equator.
- Earth observation satellites are used for mapping, weather studies, agriculture, disaster management, and environmental monitoring.
Operational Updates
ISRO stated that it plans six more launches in the current financial year, including the NVS-03 navigation satellite. The agency is also progressing towards the first uncrewed mission of the Gaganyaan human spaceflight programme.
