Overview: Anomaly during end of PS3 stage
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) confirmed that the PSLV-C62/EOS-N1 mission encountered an anomaly during the end of the PS3 stage shortly after lift-off on Monday, January 12, 2026. ISRO said a detailed post-launch analysis has been initiated to determine the root cause and assess potential impacts to the mission timeline.
At launch, PSLV-C62 was positioned to deploy the EOS-N1 satellite, a commercially and strategically important program for India’s space capabilities. While early track data indicated normal ascent, investigators observed deviations as the PS3 stage approached the end of its burn, prompting an immediate and thorough review by ISRO engineers and analysts. The space agency emphasized that launches of this complexity involve multi-stage propulsion and intricate stage sequencing, any anomaly of which requires careful, methodical inquiry.
What a PSLV launch entails
The Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) is renowned for its versatility and reliability, capable of delivering payloads to sun-synchronous orbits and other trajectories. A typical PSLV flight involves a four-stage propulsion stack with solid and liquid propulsion segments, guided by a sophisticated guidance, navigation, and control system. In missions like PSLV-C62, a successful sequence depends on precise staging, robust engine performance, and accurate separation events for payload deployment.
ISRO’s commitment to safety and transparency
ISRO has a long-standing practice of transparency in addressing anomalies. In its statement, the agency indicated that a detailed analysis has been initiated and that findings will be shared as they become available. The launch team is likely analyzing telemetry to identify any deviations in thrust, chamber pressure, or stage sequencing that could have contributed to the anomaly at the end of the PS3 burn.
Space agencies often publish preliminary data and later final reports to guide future missions, improve design margins, and refine operational procedures. ISRO’s approach reinforces its commitment to safety, reliability, and continued leadership in cost-effective space launches.
Potential implications and next steps
Until the investigation concludes, the immediate implications may include a pause in EOS-N1’s deployment timeline, remediation steps for the PS3 stage, or adjustments to mission planning for subsequent missions. Analysts will review whether the anomaly was isolated to this specific flight or indicative of a broader issue requiring design tweaks or procedure changes. ISRO may also use this incident to recalibrate risk assessments and quality controls across similar PSLV configurations.
Despite the setback, PSLV has a strong track record, and investigators usually identify the contributing factors quickly, implementing corrective actions to minimize recurrence. The EOS-N1 mission remains a high-priority project for India’s space program, and ISRO’s ongoing review signals a robust process aimed at safeguarding future launches.
What observers and stakeholders should watch for
Industry observers will be looking for a detailed mission assessment report, any corrective actions announced by ISRO, and a revised timeline for subsequent PSLV flights carrying similar payload configurations. Space industry partners and commercial customers will also monitor for updates on payload deployment status, mission success criteria, and any changes to launch cadence.
Conclusion
The PSLV-C62/EOS-N1 anomaly underscores the inherent challenges of multi-stage spaceflight, while also highlighting ISRO’s disciplined response framework. As engineers work through the data, the broader space community will await a clear explanation and an actionable path forward for EOS-N1 and future PSLV missions.
