ISRO's GSLV-F17 Launches EOS-05 in Major Space Mission

The Indian Space Research Organisation successfully launched the GSLV-F17 rocket carrying EOS-05, a state-of-the-art earth imaging satellite. The rocket lifted off on Friday morning at 2:55 am IST from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, and EOS-05 was successfully placed into its intended orbit shortly after launch. The mission boosts India's capability to capture images of the Earth and further demonstrates the reliability of the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle.

Successful Launch of EOS-05 Using GSLV-F17

The GSLV-F17 launch was the 19th flight of the GSLV mission. According to Dr V Narayanan, chairman of ISRO, the satellite has been accurately placed into its desired orbit. The EOS-05 satellite is capable of continuously monitoring the Indian region from an altitude of 36,000 km from Earth, and it can capture images in visible, infrared, multi-spectral and hyperspectral bands, capabilities that may have applications for monitoring the Earth's surface.

Importance of EOS-05

EOS-05 is a state-of-the-art Earth observation satellite that allows near real-time Earth observation. Its ability to make observations through multiple spectral bands will help enhance imagery availability for purposes such as environmental monitoring, agriculture, disaster management and resource assessment. The mission will also be crucial in helping India acquire high-end Earth observation data through satellites launched via domestic launch vehicles.

Key Facts About GSLV-F17

The GSLV-F17 is 51.7 metres tall and weighs about 420.5 tonnes at liftoff. According to Mission Director Thomas Kurian, EOS-05 is the heaviest satellite ever carried by GSLV to GTO or Sub-GTO orbit. The mission is important both because of the satellite itself and the capability of the launch vehicle, which managed to place a heavier payload into orbit.