The Indian Space Research Organisation has successfully launched GSLV-F17 carrying EOS-05, an advanced Earth observation satellite designed to operate from geosynchronous orbit. The 51.7-metre-tall rocket lifted off from the Second Launch Pad at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota at 2:55 am on September 4.
EOS-05 is India’s first imaging satellite designed to operate from geosynchronous orbit. It is intended to provide persistent observation of the Indian subcontinent and surrounding regions from an altitude of nearly 36,000 kilometres. Its orbit will allow the satellite to repeatedly observe the same broad region as it remains synchronised with Earth’s rotation.
The satellite is expected to support several applications, including agriculture, water resources, urban planning, forestry, ocean resources and environmental monitoring. Its imaging capabilities could also assist in monitoring rapidly changing events such as floods, forest fires and severe weather.
GSLV-F17 placed EOS-05 into a sub-geosynchronous transfer orbit. The satellite will use its onboard propulsion system to gradually raise and adjust its orbit before reaching its intended operational position. The mission marks another milestone for India’s GSLV programme and strengthens the country’s Earth observation capabilities.
