ISRO set to begin 2026 launch calendar with PSLV-C62 carrying EOS-N1 and multiple co-passengers
ISRO is preparing its first mission of 2026, PSLV-C62, scheduled for January 12 from Sriharikota. The flight will carry EOS-N1, an imaging satellite built for strategic purposes, along with a Kestrel Initial Demonstrator device from a Spain-based start-up and a set of commercial payloads from Indian and international customers.
A key early mission for ISRO in 2026
India’s space programme is gearing up to start its 2026 launch calendar with PSLV-C62, scheduled for January 12 from Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh. The mission is positioned as the first lift-off of the year for ISRO and is expected to carry a main earth-observation payload alongside multiple co-passenger satellites.
Primary payload: EOS-N1
According to the report, the primary payload is EOS-N1, an imaging satellite built for strategic purposes by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Imaging and earth-observation spacecraft are central to national remote sensing, including mapping, monitoring and intelligence-linked applications, and EOS-class satellites typically expand the ability to collect high-quality data across wide swathes of terrain.
International and private-sector participation
The PSLV-C62 flight also includes a Kestrel Initial Demonstrator device developed by a Spanish-based start-up, which the report says will remain attached to the PS-4 stage. In addition, a larger set of commercial payloads from startups and research institutions is manifested for this mission, indicating continued growth in multi-customer launches that blend domestic innovation with overseas participation.
Public viewing and access
The report says the public can watch the launch from the Launch View Gallery at SDSC SHAR by registering online, and that visitors are advised to keep a government-issued ID ready for registration. Public access initiatives like this are meant to broaden engagement with India’s space programme and build visibility for launch operations.
Why this mission matters
For ISRO and India’s commercial ecosystem, a multi-payload PSLV mission demonstrates operational readiness and supports both strategic and market-facing objectives. It also highlights India’s role as a launch provider for small satellites, where ride-share missions can reduce costs and accelerate access to orbit for research groups and early-stage companies.
What to watch next
- Final launch readiness updates and any changes to the January 12 schedule
- Mission performance and orbit insertion accuracy for EOS-N1
- Post-launch commissioning updates and early data products
- Follow-on commercial launch demand and manifest announcements