ISRO PSLV-C62 Launch Marks India

India began its space calendar on a strong note as the ISRO PSLV-C62 launch lifted off from the First Launch Pad at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, at 10:18 am IST today. The mission carried 16 satellites, underlining India’s growing strength in the global small-satellite launch market and its deepening ties with start-ups and international partners.

The main payload is EOS-N1, also called Anvesha, an advanced Earth Observation Satellite developed by DRDO. Using hyperspectral imaging, the satellite can identify detailed material signatures on Earth.

 “The satellite will enable scientists to monitor crop health, soil moisture, mineral deposits, and urban expansion with unprecedented precision”, said Dr. A. S. Kiran Kumar, former ISRO chairman, pointing to both civilian and strategic value.

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Another major highlight of the PSLV-C62 mission is AayulSAT, built by Bengaluru start-up OrbitAID Aerospace. It is India’s first on-orbit refueling technology demonstrator. “Our goal is to test a proprietary docking interface and fuel-transfer system in microgravity, essentially creating orbital petrol pumps that can extend the lifespan of satellites beyond their original fuel limits”, said CEO Ravi Narayan.

The rocket also placed MOI-1, India’s first orbital AI image laboratory, into orbit. Developed by TakeMe2Space and Eon Space Labs, it processes data directly in space and allows users to rent computing time for real-time insights. “By bringing computing closer to the data source in space, we are enabling faster insights for agriculture, disaster management, and climate monitoring”, said Dr. Priya Ramesh.

Adding to the payload stack is MIRA, the world’s lightest space telescope, weighing just 502 grams, seamlessly integrated with MOI-1. The launch also included Nepal’s Munal satellite and Spain’s Kestrel Initial Demonstrator capsule, making the mission a true international rideshare.

“Each mission is a step toward making India a reliable partner in global space endeavors”, said ISRO chairman S. Somanath, as the ISRO PSLV-C62 launch set the tone for India’s space ambitions in 2026.