India’s PSLV rocket experienced consecutive failures in May 2025 and January 2026, both attributed to third-stage malfunctions. These setbacks resulted in the loss of critical national security satellites. The most recent incident, involving the PSLV-C62 mission, occurred during ISRO’s first launch of 2026.

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has reported an anomaly encountered during the third stage (PS3) of the PSLV-C62 mission, which carried the EOS-N1 satellite. Initial telemetry data indicates that the issue occurred towards the end of the PS3 stage. Engineers are currently analyzing the data to determine the precise cause and impact of the anomaly on the mission’s overall objectives.

Details of the Anomaly

The PSLV-C62/EOS-N1 Mission encountered an anomaly during end of the PS3 stage, following lift-off on Monday (January 12, 2026). A detailed analysis has been initiated, ISRO said.

“Today we attempted the PSLV-C62/EOS-N1 Mission. The PSLV is a four stage vehicle with two solid stages and two liquid stages. The performance of the vehicle upto the end of third stage was as expected, close to the end of the third stage we are seeing little more disturbance in the vehicle roll rates and subsequently there is a deviation observed in the flight path we are analysing the data and we shall come back at the earliest,” ISRO Chairman Dr. V Narayanan said.

After a 22.5-hour countdown, the PSLV-C62 with the EOS-N1 satellite and 15 co-passenger satellites developed by startups and academia from India and abroad lifted off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota at 10.18 a.m.

The EOS-N1 earth observation satellite is said to be built for strategic purposes. “It is a commercial mission of NewSpace India Limited (NSIL). EOS-N1 and 14 co-passenger satellites will be injected into a Sun Synchronous Orbit, and the KID Capsule into a re-entry trajectory,” Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) said.

It added that after the injection of EOS-N1 and 14 satellites, the PS4 stage will be restarted to de-boost and enter a re-entry trajectory, followed by KID Capsule separation. “Both PS4 stage and KID capsule will re-enter Earth’s Atmosphere and impact will be in the South Pacific Ocean,” the ISRO said.

While specific details regarding the nature of the anomaly remain under investigation, ISRO has confirmed that it occurred near the conclusion of the PS3 burn phase. This phase is critical for achieving the desired orbital trajectory for the EOS-N1 satellite. The space agency is meticulously reviewing performance parameters, including engine performance, trajectory data, and control systems, to pinpoint the root cause of the deviation.

The EOS-N1 satellite is intended for Earth observation. It features advanced imaging capabilities designed for environmental monitoring, resource management, and disaster response. The satellite’s data is crucial for various applications across scientific research, economic planning, and humanitarian efforts.

ISRO’s Response and Analysis

Following the detection of the anomaly, ISRO immediately initiated a comprehensive diagnostic process. A team of experts is working to assess the potential impact on the EOS-N1 satellite’s operational lifespan and data quality. The agency is committed to transparency and will provide further updates as the analysis progresses.

Delivering a televised statement from the spaceport on Monday, (12th Jan), ISRO Chief, Dr. V. Narayanan said, “We attempted PSLV-C62 mission. PSLV is a four-stage rocket. The vehicle performance up to almost the end of the third stage was as expected. By the end of third stage, we observed a disturbance in the vehicle, and a deviation was observed in the flight path. We are analyzing the data, we will come back at the earliest.”

“Our priority is to fully understand the nature of this anomaly and its implications,” stated a spokesperson for ISRO. “We are dedicating all necessary resources to ensure a thorough evaluation and to implement corrective measures for future missions.”

Implications and Future Missions

The incident raises concerns about the reliability of the PSLV launch vehicle, a mainstay of India’s space program. A detailed investigation is crucial to prevent similar issues in future missions. The findings from this analysis will inform design modifications and operational protocols for upcoming PSLV launches, including those planned for scientific exploration and commercial satellite deployment.

This anomaly highlights the inherent risks involved in space exploration and the importance of rigorous testing and quality control. ISRO’s commitment to identifying and addressing the problem underscores its dedication to maintaining the integrity and success of its space program.