The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is preparing to launch EOS-05, also known as GISAT-1A, on 4 September 2026 from the Second Launch Pad at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. The 2,367 kg Earth Observation Satellite will be carried by the GSLV-F17 launch vehicle into a Sub-Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit.
EOS-05 Mission Profile
EOS-05 is an Earth observation satellite designed for imaging and monitoring applications. It is planned to operate from a geostationary orbit at about 36,000 km above the equator, which places it in a fixed position relative to the Earth’s surface.
The satellite is expected to provide near-real-time images of the Indian subcontinent at intervals of 30 minutes. For priority targets, the revisit time is stated as 5 minutes, which is relevant for rapid observation tasks.
GSLV-F17 Launch Vehicle
GSLV-F17 is the launch vehicle assigned for the EOS-05 mission. The rocket is 51.7 metres tall and has a lift-off mass of 420.5 tonnes, placing it among India’s heavier launch configurations.
The Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle, or GSLV, is used by ISRO for placing satellites into geosynchronous transfer orbits. The cryogenic upper stage is a key element of the GSLV system for high-energy missions.
Applications of Earth Observation Satellites
Earth observation satellites are used for weather monitoring, agricultural assessment, disaster management, and security-related observation. Such satellites collect imagery and data from space for analysis of land, water, clouds, and surface changes.
Geostationary and geosynchronous orbits are commonly used for continuous observation of large regions. A geostationary orbit lies approximately 35,786 km above the equator and has an orbital period equal to the Earth’s rotation period.
Important Facts for Exams
- EOS-05 is also known as GISAT-1A.
- The mission uses the GSLV-F17 launch vehicle.
- The launch site is the Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota.
- Geostationary satellites remain fixed over one point on the equator.
EOS-05 is planned as India’s first imaging satellite to operate from a geosynchronous orbit. The mission is linked to Earth observation, weather tracking, and disaster monitoring.
