After a meticulously executed 22.5-hour countdown, the Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle, PSLV-C62, carrying the EOS-N1 Earth observation satellite along with 15 co-passenger satellites, lifted off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre at 10:18 a.m. on Monday, marking India’s first space launch of the year.

The co-passenger satellites were developed by Indian and international startups and academic institutions, reflecting ISRO’s continued push to support innovation and private participation in the space sector.

While the launch and performance of the rocket remained normal through the initial phases, ISRO confirmed that the mission encountered an anomaly towards the end of the third stage (PS3) of flight. The deviation was observed during the terminal phase of the PS3 burn, affecting the vehicle’s intended trajectory.

ISRO officials stated that a detailed analysis of telemetry data is underway to identify the cause of the anomaly. Further updates on the mission outcome and payload status are expected after a comprehensive technical review.

Despite the setback, the PSLV remains a key pillar of India’s space programme, having successfully launched hundreds of satellites over the years for domestic and international customers.