External team involved in PSLV probe; next launch date in June, says Minister, Pg14

Key Highlights:

• An external team is involved in the investigation of the recent PSLV failures.
• The next ISRO launch is tentatively scheduled for June.
• PSLV C-62 failed on January 12 due to the third stage not igniting.
• A similar failure occurred on May 18, 2025, with PSLV (C-61).
• ISRO has 18 launches scheduled for this year, including six private sector satellites.

Detailed Insights:

• The investigation aims to identify the causes behind the consecutive PSLV failures and restore confidence in its reliability.
• The failure of PSLV C-62 on January 12 mirrored the May 18, 2025 incident, where the third stage malfunctioned, resulting in mission failure.
• Despite the failures, no companies with satellites onboard have withdrawn their requests for launch, indicating continued trust in ISRO.
• ISRO plans to conduct 18 launches this year, including missions for private sector satellites, and has three major foreign launches planned for next year.
• The external appraisal aims to reinforce confidence in ISRO's launch capabilities and ensure the problem is rectified before the next launch.

Key Concepts Involved:

• PSLV (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle): An expendable medium-lift launch vehicle designed and operated by ISRO.
• EOS (Earth Observation Satellite): Satellites designed for remote sensing and observation of Earth for various applications.
• ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation): The national space agency of India, responsible for space programs and research.