Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday congratulated the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) following the successful launch of the GSLV-F17 rocket carrying the Earth Observation Satellite EOS-05, describing the mission as a “significant stride in India’s space journey.”
The launch marks an important milestone for India’s space programme as EOS-05 is the country’s first dedicated imaging satellite designed to operate from a geosynchronous orbit. Positioned at an altitude of around 36,000 kilometres, the satellite is expected to provide continuous imaging capabilities, strengthening India’s Earth observation infrastructure.
Congratulating ISRO scientists, engineers and all personnel associated with the mission, Rajnath Singh said the successful launch demonstrates India’s growing technological capabilities and reinforces the country's position as a leading space-faring nation. The mission is expected to support a wide range of applications, including disaster management, environmental monitoring, agriculture and strategic requirements.
The GSLV-F17 mission lifted off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota during the early hours of Friday. About 18 minutes after launch, the rocket successfully placed EOS-05 into its intended transfer orbit. The satellite will subsequently perform a series of orbit-raising manoeuvres before reaching its final geosynchronous position.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also praised ISRO for the achievement, calling it an “outstanding achievement” and a moment of pride for the nation. He noted that the mission further strengthens India's capabilities in satellite technology and Earth observation.
EOS-05 is expected to offer near real-time imaging of the Indian landmass and surrounding regions. Unlike many Earth observation satellites operating in lower orbits that capture images periodically, a geosynchronous satellite can continuously monitor the same area, improving response capabilities during natural disasters, weather events and other critical situations.
The mission is also being viewed as an important step in ISRO’s broader roadmap as India prepares for future advanced space missions, including human spaceflight initiatives under the Gaganyaan programme and expanded satellite infrastructure.
With the successful deployment of EOS-05, ISRO has added another milestone to its growing list of achievements, further enhancing India’s capabilities in space-based observation, scientific research and strategic applications.
