ISRO Successfully Deploys India's First Geosynchronous Imaging Satellite EOS-05 Into Orbit

ISRO’s GSLV-F17 successfully deployed the advanced Earth observation satellite EOS-05 into its intended Sub-Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit from Sriharikota on Friday, marking a significant milestone for India’s space programme.

The 51.7-metre rocket lifted off from the Second Launch Pad

at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre at the scheduled time of 2:55 am, lighting up the dark, rain-soaked skies before completing its mission successfully.

“LIFT-OFF! GSLV-F17 carrying EOS-05 lifts off from Satish Dhawan Space Centre, SHAR, Sriharikota,” ISRO said in a post on X shortly after launch.

#WATCH | Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh: ISRO successfully launches the GSLV-F17/EOS-05 mission from the Second Launch Pad at Satish Dhawan Space Centre.

(Source: ISRO) pic.twitter.com/4Dc9ahTHpu

— ANI (@ANI) September 3, 2026

The liftoff came at the end of a 27-hour countdown that began at 11:30 pm on Wednesday. The mission aims to place EOS-05 into a Sub-Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit.

EOS-05 Successfully Enters Orbit

ISRO Chairman Dr V Narayanan, in his first remarks after the launch, confirmed the mission’s success.

“I am very happy to announce that the GSLV-F17 vehicle has successfully and precisely injected the advanced Earth observation satellite EOS-05, the Geo-Imaging Satellite, into the intended and required orbit,” he said.

EOS-05 is India’s first-ever imaging satellite designed to operate from geosynchronous orbit. Its placement is expected to strengthen India’s ability to obtain frequent imagery of large areas for applications including Earth observation and monitoring.

GSLV-F17 is the 19th flight of India’s Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle. The rocket features a 4-metre-diameter ogive composite payload fairing and is designed to carry EOS-05 to its designated Sub-GTO.

The launch also drew students, teachers and space enthusiasts to Sriharikota, with several braving wet weather to witness the mission. For many students, the event offered a close-up glimpse of India’s growing space and satellite capabilities.

(With inputs from agencies)