All eyes on GISAT-1A mission as ISRO aims to mend faulty launch streak
The launch is further significant because the rocket that attempted to launch the GISAT-1 satellite in 2021 failed, destroying the satellite as well. GISAT-1A is the second attempt
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) plans to launch the GISAT-1A satellite in September, drawing attention due to a series of recent failures with the organization's rockets. Since the two consecutive PSLV mission failures in 2025 and early 2026, ISRO has halted launches to investigate the cause of the setbacks. Union Minister Jitendra Singh stated that the government had identified the reason for the failures and resolved them, though the 'National Level Expert Committee' report remains undisclosed.
The GISAT-1A launch is particularly significant as it's the second attempt after the 2021 GISAT-1 mission failure, which was caused by a cryogenic upper stage failure. GISAT-1A will attempt to deliver the satellite to a geostationary orbit using a GSLV Mk-II rocket, the same rocket family that experienced the failures. ISRO's earth-observation capabilities are crucial, as GISAT-1A will monitor the Indian subcontinent continuously, aiding in tracking events like flooding, cyclones, and agricultural activities.
However, the government's refusal to release the failure analysis report has led to public concerns and questions about the changes made to the rocket and launch infrastructure.
Written by urgent.news from The Hindu - Sci-Tech's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
