PSLV-C62 Failure: 16 Satellites Lost in Orbit

ISRO suffered a major setback on Monday after its PSLV-C62 rocket failed to place 16 satellites into their intended orbit due to a malfunction in the third stage of the launch vehicle. The mission, which lifted off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota at 10.18 am, was meant to deploy multiple satellites into a 512-kilometre Sun-Synchronous Orbit.

The 44.4-metre-tall four-stage rocket performed normally during its early phases. However, as the third stage ignited, abnormal disturbances and deviation from the planned flight path were detected. This deviation ultimately prevented the satellites from reaching their designated orbit, leading to the complete loss of all onboard payloads.

This marks the second consecutive failure involving the PSLV’s third stage. In May 2025, the PSLV-C61 mission had also failed after a drop in motor chamber pressure affected performance. Engineers are now examining telemetry and flight data to determine the exact cause of the repeated anomaly.

Among the satellites lost were DRDO’s Anvesha, a strategic Earth observation satellite capable of detecting military camouflage from space, AayulSAT, India’s first in-orbit refuelling satellite, and CGUSAT, a student-built satellite designed for emergency and disaster communication. The mission also carried a jointly developed Earth observation satellite by Thailand and the United Kingdom, and KID, a technology demonstrator from a Spanish startup meant to test atmospheric re-entry.

Experts say the failed payloads are now likely drifting in space, potentially becoming orbital debris. ISRO has initiated a detailed failure analysis and is expected to release an official report in the coming days.

The PSLV has long been considered India’s most reliable launch vehicle, making this double failure a significant concern for the country’s space programme. The findings of the investigation will be crucial in restoring confidence in upcoming missions.