ISRO Starts Countdown for GSLV-F17 Launch Carrying Advanced EOS-05 Satellite
The Indian Space Research Organisation has started the official countdown for its GSLV-F17 mission. The rocket will launch India's first geosynchronous imaging satellite, EOS-05, from Sriharikota to boost national disaster monitoring and weather tracking.
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has commenced the 27.5 hour countdown for the GSLV-F17 launch from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.
The 51.7 metre rocket will take off at 02:55 AM IST on September 4. It is going to carry the 2367 kg EOS-05 satellite into orbit.
ISRO officials specify that EOS-05 marks a major achievement as the first Earth observation spacecraft from India to be placed in a geosynchronous orbit. It offers near real time imaging to track cyclones, thunderstorms, and natural disasters across India and the neighbouring region.
GSLV-F17 Launch Details: Schedule, Payload, and Objectives
The GSLV-F17 mission represents the 19th flight of the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle for India. The rocket will release EOS-05 into a Sub-Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (Sub-GTO) operating from the Second Launch Pad (SLP).
| GSLV Latest Mission Parameter | Technical Facts |
| Launch Vehicle | GSLV-F17 (4m diameter Ogive composite payload fairing) |
| Satellite Payload | EOS-05 Earth Observation Satellite (2,367 kg) |
| Target Orbit | Sub-Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (Sub-GTO) |
| Primary Functions | Disaster tracking, agricultural monitoring, weather alerts |
The primary mission goal is to maintain continuous observation over the Indian subcontinent. Data gathered will assist in oceanographic studies, water body tracking, and quick alerts during extreme weather emergencies.
GSLV-F17 carrying EOS-05 was moved from the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) to the Umbilical Tower (UT) on 28th August 2026 at Satish Dhawan Space Centre, SHAR, Sriharikota, as preparations continue for the scheduled launch on:
— ISRO (@isro) September 1, 2026
🗓️ 04 Sept 2026 | ⏰ 02:55 AM IST
Livestreaming… pic.twitter.com/4nW2MUgeYh
How Many Stages are There in GSLV?
India's Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle uses a complex propulsion framework to lift heavy payloads into high orbits. One of the major queries around ISRO missions, especially this launch, is how many stages are there in GSLV.
The GSLV is a 3 stage launch vehicle where -
- First Stage (GS1) uses a solid rocket motor augmented by four liquid strap on boosters.
- Second Stage (GS2) is powered by a single liquid-fuel Vikas engine.
- Third Stage (GS3) utilizes an indigenously developed Cryogenic Upper Stage (CUS) burning liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen.
This multi stage design allows the rocket to carry heavy satellites to high altitudes efficiently.
GSLV Mk II vs Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mark III
It is important to distinguish the GSLV configurations used in ISRO's fleet. The GSLV-F17 mission uses the basic GSLV Mk II configuration which features a cryogenic upper stage.
The Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mark III (now called LVM3) is a heavier lift vehicle capable of launching 4000 kg class payloads to GTO and human spaceflight missions like Gaganyaan.
Where to Watch the GSLV-F17 Launch Live
Viewers worldwide can watch the GSLV launch live starting at 02:25 AM IST on September 4, 2026. The official live stream will be broadcast on ISRO’s website and its official YouTube channel. You can also watch the launch on DD National.
This launch reinforces India's growing space capabilities along with providing key observations to support environmental research and disaster management.
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