ISLAMABAD: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on Monday said that its Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle mission, PSLV-C62, “encountered an anomaly” during flight and that a detailed analysis is underway, Indian media reported on Monday.

In a post on X, ISRO stated that “the PSLV-C62 mission encountered an anomaly during end of the PS3 stage” and confirmed that data from the launch is being closely examined.

The PSLV-C62 rocket lifted off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota at 10:18 a.m. as part of the 64th mission of the PSLV program.

The launch was considered significant as it marked a crucial flight for the launch vehicle following a failure in 2025. According to Indian media reports, a deviation from the intended flight path was observed during the rocket’s third stage, prompting further scrutiny by mission teams.

Success or a failure?

ISRO Chairman Dr V. Narayanan said the agency is analyzing the available data and will share further details at the earliest opportunity.

He refrained from declaring the mission either a success or a failure while the investigation continues.

The mission carried 15 satellites, including the Earth Observation Satellite EOS-N1 and the surveillance satellite Anvesha, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation.

EOS-N1 and 14 co-passenger satellites were scheduled for injection into a Sun Synchronous Orbit, while the Kestrel Initial Demonstrator satellite was intended to follow a re-entry trajectory.

The Anvesha satellite is designed to enhance India’s high-precision imaging and surveillance capabilities.

The mission also marked a milestone for India’s private space sector, with Hyderabad-based Dhruva Space contributing seven satellites — the highest number by a single Indian private company on a PSLV mission.

Indian Space Research Organisation

India’s rocket launch hits ‘anomaly’ in third stage