Overview
The PSLV-C62/EOS-N1 mission faced an anomaly during the final phase of the PS3 stage, shortly after lift-off on Monday, January 12, 2026. ISRO confirmed that a detailed analysis has been initiated to determine the root cause and assess any potential implications for the mission and future launches.
What Happened
ISRO reported that an anomaly occurred at the end of the PS3 stage of the PSLV-C62 mission. While the statement did not describe the specific technical fault, it indicated that the launch team paused normal operations for a comprehensive investigation. The immediate focus is to review telemetry, propulsion parameters, and stage separation sequences to understand deviations from expected performance.
Understanding PSLV-C62/EOS-N1
PSLV-C62 is part of India’s reliable PSLV program, designed to place payloads into various orbits using a multi-stage rocket. The EOS-N1 satellite involved in this mission serves to enhance Earth observation capabilities. The mission profile typically includes a precise sequence of ignitions and stage separations across the four PSLV cores, with careful synchronization to deliver the spacecraft into its intended orbit.
Why Anomalies Happen—and What ISRO Monitors
Launch anomalies can arise from a range of factors, including propulsion system behavior, stage separation dynamics, or avionics commands. ISRO maintains a rigorous launch safety and mission assurance framework, which involves immediate containment of the issue, validation of ground and flight data, and a root-cause analysis carried out by an independent board. This process is standard in spaceflight to ensure mission integrity and crew safety for crewed missions, ultimately protecting national space assets and ongoing programs.
Impact on Mission Timeline
While the anomaly is serious, ISRO’s declaration of a “detailed analysis” suggests that no immediate corrective action on the ground has been taken beyond data review. The primary objective now is to determine if the EOS-N1 satellite remains in a position to be recovered or if a future mission window is required. A successful resolution could lead to a back-to-back investigation with a revised plan for mission recovery or a new launch slot.
What Comes Next
ISRO is expected to publish findings from the anomaly investigation and outline any engineering changes or procedural updates. Depending on the root cause, the agency may undergo hardware inspection, software revalidation, and possible adjustments to the PS3 stage or subsequent stages. Updates will guide decision-makers on whether to proceed with a launch reschedule, a modified mission profile, or a new launch window for EOS-N1.
Context for Stakeholders
Public interest in India’s space program remains high as ISRO continues to demonstrate cost-effective access to space with a robust set of launches. Anomalies, while not uncommon in the realm of rocketry, are monitored transparently through official briefings to maintain confidence among industry partners, space agencies, and the public.
Conclusion
The PSLV-C62/EOS-N1 anomaly underscores the meticulous nature of spaceflight operations. As ISRO conducts its root-cause analysis, the agency’s experience and structured investigation approach will determine the next steps for EOS-N1 and the broader PSLV program.
