ISRO Creates History in Space: GSLV-F17 Launches 'Baaz' EOS-05 Satellite to Keep Watch Over India's Borders

New Delhi: ISRO has once again done wonders. On Friday, September 4, 2026, GSLV-F17 successfully took off from Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. From the second launch pad of Satish Dhawan Space Centre, this rocket took the country's most advanced Earth Observation Satellite EOS-05 into its designated orbit.

The success of the mission was confirmed by ISRO after the launch. This achievement is considered important for India's space programme. The mission is expected to further strengthen the country's Earth observation and geo-imaging capabilities.

What was special about GSLV-F17 mission?

In this mission, the GSLV rocket successfully placed the EOS-05 satellite into a sub-geosynchronous transfer orbit. EOS-05 has been designed in such a way that it will be able to provide images of the Earth in near real time.

According to ISRO, this satellite will help in continuous and comprehensive observation of India from a height of about 36,000 kilometres from the Earth. This is expected to provide useful information in works related to weather, environment and other earth observations.

What did ISRO chief say on the success of the mission?

ISRO chief Dr. V. Narayanan expressed happiness over the success of the mission. He said that GSLV-F17 has successfully placed the Advanced Earth Observation Satellite EOS-05 into the intended and required orbit.

He described this success as the result of the hard work of ISRO scientists and engineers. According to him, behind such a mission is long-term preparation and hard work of the team.

Why is it being said to be the heaviest satellite ever?

According to Mission Director Thomas Kurian, EOS-05 is the heaviest satellite ever launched into a GTO or sub-GTO orbit by GSLV.

He said that the success of the mission is a matter of pride and joy for the entire ISRO family. With this launch, GSLV also successfully completed its 19th mission.

Why is EOS-05 important for India?

EOS-05 is an advanced geo-imaging and Earth observation satellite. With its help, India will be able to obtain detailed and continuous images of the earth's surface.
Due to its near real-time imaging capability, this satellite can prove useful in monitoring various Earth-related activities. This will also boost the country's remote sensing and earth observation capability.

How powerful is the GSLV-F17 rocket?

The height of GSLV-F17 is about 51.7 meters, while its liftoff mass is said to be about 420.5 tonnes. It is among India's largest operational launch vehicles.

The biggest success of this entire mission was to send the heavy satellite to its correct orbit through a rocket. The video of the launch appears to be just a few minutes long, but behind those few minutes, ISRO scientists and engineers have spent many years of sleep, hard work and preparation.