ISRO’s Anvesha Satellite Launch Fails After Technical Glitch in PSLV-C62 PS3 Stage

A new chapter in India's space journey was almost written from Sriharikota. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) today launched the highly confidential hyperspectral surveillance satellite 'Anvesha', developed by DRDO, under the PSLV-C62/EOS-N1 mission, but a malfunction occurred at the end of the PS3 stage. As a result, the mission failed.

The 64th mission of the PSLV, PSLV-C62/EOS-N1, was launched from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota at 10:18 AM. A total of 15 satellites were being carried on this flight, including a highly confidential surveillance satellite named Anvesha, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

However, a malfunction occurred at the end of the PS3 stage of the PSLV-C62 mission. Problems were observed in the third stage of ISRO's PSLV C62 Anvesha launch. It was seen spinning. This is the same stage that failed in a previous launch. The future of the mission is uncertain. A detailed investigation has been initiated.

What is Hyperspectral Technology?

The hyperspectral technology used in the Anvesha satellite can detect even the smallest objects hidden deep in forests or on the battlefield. It not only takes pictures but can also see colors of light that the human eye cannot. It transforms ordinary satellite images into spy camera images. This special technology is called hyperspectral.

Anvesha can find enemies hidden in bunkers in the jungle

Anvesha was launched this morning at 10:18 AM from Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, using the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV)-C62, along with 14 other satellites. Anvesha was developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). It is a spy satellite equipped with advanced imaging capabilities, designed for precise surveillance and mapping. Despite being several hundred kilometers above the Earth, it can capture images of enemies hidden in bushes, forests, or bunkers.

15 Satellites: 7 Indian and 8 Foreign

• The EOS-N1 mission is ISRO's first satellite mission launch of 2026. ISRO's commercial arm, NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), operated this mission.
• Of the 15 satellites launched, 7 are Indian and 8 are foreign.
• Hyderabad-based Dhruva Space sent its 7 satellites into space through this launch. The other 8 foreign satellites include those from France, Nepal, Brazil, and the UK.

This is the 9th commercial mission for the construction and launch of Earth observation satellites. It is considered significant for India's private space sector, as this is the first time an Indian private company has had such a large stake in a PSLV mission.

Anvesha Satellite operates on HRS Technology

The Anvesha satellite operates on 'Hyperspectral Remote Sensing' (HRS) technology, which detects a wide spectrum of light. This means it can capture hundreds of subtle shades of light instead of just a few colors.

The subtle colors detected by this satellite reveal what the image actually depicts. It's like a scanner that can identify different types of soil, plants, human activity, or anything else based on their unique spectral signatures.

Beneficial for the defense sector

• This satellite is used for tasks such as monitoring forests, mining operations, and measuring greenhouse gas emissions. In short, it acts as a secret weapon for the armed forces. To determine whether a military tank can pass through a particular area, the type of soil in that area can be identified using HRS technology. If there is sandy or marshy terrain, it will detect it in advance.
• In wooded areas, it is often easy to hide behind trees and vegetation. If an enemy soldier is hiding in a bush or a weapon is concealed underwater in a river, HRS technology can detect it.
• Using HRS data and images, simulations can be created through 3D imaging during wartime. This helps the military understand the optimal routes and enemy formations. It can also be used to monitor enemy activities in border areas.

Read More: Gaganyaan: From India to space travel. ISRO’s recent missions after the success of Chandrayaan III and Aditya-L1