ISRO’s EOS-05: 9 Key Facts About India’s New ‘Eye in the Sky
Poulami Saha
India’s First Geo-Imaging Satellite — EOS-05 is India’s first dedicated Earth-observation imaging satellite placed in geosynchronous orbit, enabling persistent monitoring of large regions.
Powerful GSLV-F17 Launch — ISRO launched EOS-05 aboard GSLV-F17 on September 4, marking the rocket’s heaviest mission and 19th flight.
Nearly 36,000-Kilometre Orbit — EOS-05 operates in an elliptical geosynchronous orbit, ranging approximately between 34,903 and 35,884 kilometres above Earth.
Continuous Regional Observation — Its geosynchronous position enables EOS-05 to repeatedly monitor the Indian subcontinent, offering sustained coverage unavailable from conventional low-Earth orbits.
Disaster Management Support — The satellite is designed to provide frequent imagery that can strengthen monitoring of natural disasters and improve response planning.
Agriculture And Forestry Monitoring — EOS-05 can capture imagery of large areas frequently, supporting agricultural assessment, forestry monitoring and broader environmental management activities.
Strategic Defence Applications — Beyond civilian uses, EOS-05 is expected to provide strategic imagery, including supporting the Indian Navy’s information requirements.
Ten-Year Mission Life — Designed for approximately ten years of operations, EOS-05 provides India with a long-term Earth-observation capability from geosynchronous orbit.
GSLV Reliability Milestone — The successful mission strengthens confidence in GSLV after several recent launch setbacks and demonstrates India’s high-orbit launch capabilities.