PSLV-C62 Mission Fails Due to Third-Stage Anomaly, Raising Concerns Over ISRO's Quality Assurance
The Indian Space Research Organisation's (ISRO) PSLV-C62 mission, carrying the EOS-N1 earth observation satellite and 15 co-passenger satellites, failed to reach its intended trajectory on January 12, 2026. An anomaly was detected during the end of the third stage (PS3), resulting in the loss of all satellites. This marks the second consecutive failure for the PSLV, following the PSLV-C61 failure in May 2025. The EOS-N1 satellite, developed by DRDO for strategic purposes, represents a significant financial loss. Experts call for greater transparency and the release of Failure Analysis Committee (FAC) reports to restore confidence in the PSLV as a reliable commercial launch vehicle.
Key Points
- The PSLV-C62 mission failed due to a 'roll rate disturbance' in the third stage, similar to the PSLV-C61 failure in May 2025.
- The primary payload was the EOS-N1 earth observation satellite, built by DRDO for strategic applications, which was not insured as per government policy.
- This is the fourth failure of the PSLV since its first mission in 1993 and the second within a single year, impacting its reputation as a 'workhorse'.
- NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), ISRO's commercial arm, faces challenges as international insurers may skyrocket premiums for future PSLV launches.
- The lack of transparency regarding the Failure Analysis Committee (FAC) report for the previous C61 mission has drawn criticism from the scientific community.
Exam Facts
- Date of PSLV-C62 failure: January 12, 2026.
- Primary payload: EOS-N1 (Earth Observation Satellite) developed by DRDO.
- Previous failure: PSLV-C61 on May 18, 2025.
- Commercial arm of ISRO: NewSpace India Limited (NSIL).
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