ISRO’s PSLV to Launch All-Weather Radar Satellite May 18
ISRO’s PSLV-C61 will launch the all-weather Earth observation satellite RISAT-1B on May 18, enhancing India’s surveillance and disaster response capabilities. Learn how this mission cements PSLV’s role as India’s trusted space workhorse.
PSLV to Launch RISAT-1B on May 18: ISRO’s Radar Eye in the Sky
India is once again preparing to push the boundaries of space technology. On May 18, 2025, at precisely 6:59 a.m. IST, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will launch its latest Earth observation satellite—RISAT-1B—aboard the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C61). This mission not only underscores ISRO’s engineering excellence but also reinforces the PSLV’s enduring legacy as the backbone of India’s space missions.
As the countdown ticks toward liftoff from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, space watchers and strategic planners alike have their eyes on what promises to be a pivotal mission for national security, environmental monitoring, and disaster response.
PSLV: India’s Proven Launch Workhorse
Often referred to as ISRO’s most trusted rocket, the PSLV has earned global respect for its consistent performance and adaptability. First flown in 1993, the PSLV has since completed over 60 successful missions, cementing its place as one of the most dependable launch vehicles in the world.
What sets the PSLV apart is its sophisticated four-stage propulsion system—a blend of solid and liquid fuel stages that enables the vehicle to precisely deliver payloads into a variety of orbits, from low-Earth to geostationary transfer. This versatility has allowed PSLV to serve a broad range of missions, from launching India’s own remote sensing satellites to placing international payloads into orbit.
Its track record includes landmark missions like Chandrayaan-1, India’s first mission to the Moon, and the Mars Orbiter Mission, both launched using customized PSLV configurations.
Inside the Mission: PSLV-C61 and RISAT-1B
The upcoming PSLV-C61 mission is specifically configured to carry the 1,710 kg RISAT-1B satellite into a sun-synchronous orbit. This orbit ensures that the satellite passes over the same part of the Earth at the same local time each day, a critical feature for consistent imaging and long-term environmental monitoring.
RISAT-1B is no ordinary satellite. It is equipped with advanced C-band Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) technology that allows it to capture ultra-sharp images regardless of cloud cover, time of day, or weather conditions. This all-weather capability makes it particularly valuable for round-the-clock border surveillance, agricultural monitoring, forestry assessment, flood detection, and disaster management.
What makes RISAT-1B especially versatile is its five imaging modes. These range from ultra-high-resolution views capable of identifying small surface features to broader, wide-area sweeps ideal for large-scale environmental monitoring. It’s this flexibility that positions the satellite as a strategic asset in a time when real-time, accurate information is more critical than ever.
Strategic Importance Amid Growing Security Concerns
India’s investment in Earth observation and surveillance technology comes at a crucial juncture. With rising regional tensions and evolving threats—from natural disasters to cross-border incursions—the ability to maintain persistent and accurate Earth imaging has never been more important.
RISAT-1B’s deployment is expected to significantly boost India’s space-based reconnaissance capabilities, particularly along sensitive border regions and coastlines. Its integration into existing surveillance networks will offer enhanced situational awareness, improve disaster preparedness, and aid in resource management across multiple sectors.
According to ISRO officials, this mission aligns with India’s long-term vision of using space assets not just for exploration but also for ensuring national security and sustainable development.
A Trusted Platform for the Future
Beyond its current mission, PSLV continues to symbolize India’s ambitions in space. With growing international collaborations and increasing commercial launches, PSLV has emerged as a global player in cost-effective satellite deployment.
Over the years, it has launched satellites for over 30 countries, including the US, UK, and France. Its affordability, reliability, and proven track record have made it a preferred launch vehicle for small and medium satellite missions worldwide.
As ISRO looks ahead to more complex missions—including the Gaganyaan human spaceflight project and the development of the Bharatiya Antariksh Station—PSLV’s legacy is far from over. It remains a cornerstone of India’s expanding space ecosystem.
Conclusion: A Launch with Lasting Impact
As the clock ticks toward May 18, PSLV-C61’s mission to deploy RISAT-1B isn’t just another satellite launch—it’s a testament to India’s growing technological prowess and its commitment to using space as a tool for progress, security, and resilience.
With RISAT-1B’s deployment, India will gain a sharper, more persistent eye in the sky—one capable of withstanding the elements and delivering real-time intelligence for years to come. It’s a step forward not only for Indian space science but also for those who rely on it in times of need.
Disclaimer:
This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not represent official statements from ISRO. Launch timings and technical details are based on available sources as of the publication date and may be subject to change.
source : India Today