India's Space Year Begins: ISRO's PSLV-C62 Launches EOS-N1 And 14 Satellites From Sriharikota

New Delhi: India's space agency, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), opened its 2026 launch calendar with a success on Monday. The PSLV-C62 rocket lifted off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, placing the EOS-N1 satellite and 14 co-passenger payloads into space early this morning. 

What Is the Main Satellite?

The centrepiece of the mission was the Earth observation satellite EOS-N1, also known by its codename Anvesha. Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), it's designed to capture detailed images of the planet's surface. The data will support a range of uses, from monitoring crops and forests to helping with disaster response and border surveillance.

Liftoff!

PSLV-C62 launches the EOS-N1 Mission from SDSC-SHAR, Sriharikota.

Livestream link: https://t.co/fMiIFTUGpf

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#PSLVC62 #EOSN1 #ISRO #NSIL

— ISRO (@isro) January 12, 2026

How Many Other Satellites Flew Along?

Alongside EOS-N1, the rocket carried 14 other satellites for various Indian and international customers. These co-passengers include small research and commercial payloads. Many are built by startups and academic teams, showcasing the growing role of private and smaller players in space.

Why Is This Launch Significant?

This mission is the 64th flight of ISRO’s trusted Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), a workhorse rocket with a record of reliable missions. Starting the year with a flawless launch builds confidence for the rest of ISRO’s 2026 schedule, which includes more science, Earth observation and commercial missions. 

Where and When Did It Take Off?

The rocket left the launch pad at around 10:18 a.m. IST from the First Launch Pad of the Satish Dhawan Space Centre on Sriharikota island. Weather and technical checks were cleared, and spectators watched as the PSLV climbed smoothly into the clear sky. 

What Comes Next?

With the satellites now in orbit, teams on the ground will begin commissioning and testing their instruments. Over the coming days and weeks, the EOS-N1 and its companions will start sending back data. ISRO engineers will also be analysing every part of the mission to refine future launches.