ISRO’s Recent Launch Setbacks
India’s space agency, ISRO, is grappling with concerns following two consecutive failures of its Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV). The latest failure, PSLV-C62, occurred on January 10, 2026, creating significant implications for the agency known for its successful record in satellite launches.
The back-to-back failures have raised alarm bells within ISRO, prompting the agency to reassess various aspects of its operations. The PSLV, which has conducted 64 missions since its inception, has now seen four failures, marking a shift in its previously impressive success rate.
Background and Importance of PSLV
The PSLV has been dubbed ISRO’s workhorse, with a storied history of successful launches primarily aimed at deploying satellites for both domestic and international clients. With a long-standing success rate of approximately 95%, the latest challenges signal a need for deeper investigation and resolution to maintain ISRO’s stature in the global space community.
In 2025, the failure of PSLV-C61 had already resulted in a decline in the rocket’s success rate to 93.7%. Following the recent PSLV-C62 failure, the situation has further prompted discussions amongst scientists regarding the potential root causes.
Understanding the Failures
Technical Glitches Identified
The investigation into PSLV-C62’s failure indicates that issues encountered during the rocket’s third stage, referred to as PS3, significantly contributed to the setback. The third stage employs a solid motor, responsible for providing critical propulsion after the second stage burn. ISRO is currently scrutinizing a reported disturbance in the “roll rate” during the final stages of operation, which led to a deviation from the intended trajectory.
A previous analysis released in connection with PSLV-C61 revealed complications associated with chamber pressure within the motor case. Such unresolved issues evidently have cascading effects, which may have resurfaced during the recent launch attempt.
Historical Context of PSLV Failures
Historically, the PSLV has experienced varied technical hurdles. The inaugural PSLV-D1 mission in 1993 encountered a guidance system error, while a partial success was achieved in the 1997 PSLV-C1 mission due to a pressure regulator failure. Having established a remarkable track record over the years, the current sequential failures present a striking shift.
Post-2017, the PSLV had seen a remarkable streak of successful launches, accumulating 21 consecutive successes before the failures began to emerge in 2025. The recent failures thus signal a significant turning point for this esteemed launch vehicle.
Impact on ISRO’s Workforce and Morale
The dual setbacks have impacted the morale of ISRO’s team, which prides itself on its meticulous approach to space exploration. A prominent scientist within ISRO expressed concerns stating, “It would have been different if any other launcher failed, but a PSLV failure worries us.” This statement highlights the emotional and professional investment the team has in their vehicle, underscoring the pressure to identify and remedy the underlying issues.
Future Directions and Analysis
Setting Up Investigative Committees
In light of these failures, ISRO has established another Failure Analysis Committee (FAC) to delve into the specific causes of the PSLV-C62 incident. Unfortunately, the findings from the previous FAC analysis have not yet been made public. However, there is anticipation for a thorough report that may provide insights into the intricate challenges faced during these missions.
As ISRO moves forward, it remains imperative for the agency to not only address technical shortcomings but also to reinforce measures across quality control, supply chain management, and rigorous testing protocols. The complexity of modern space missions necessitates an unwavering commitment to safety and reliability.
Potential for Recovery and Innovation
Experts emphasize that each setback provides an opportunity for learning and innovating within the space sector. ISRO has a robust legacy and has repeatedly emerged resilient from earlier challenges. Drawing from past solutions can guide them in enhancing the reliability of future missions.
A senior engineer noted, “Failures are part and parcel of space exploration. They push us to refine our technologies and processes, ultimately leading to greater success in the long run.” This perspective suggests that the agency’s commitment to excellence in space technology can remain intact even amid current challenges.
Next Steps for ISRO
As the investigation unfolds, analysts and industry stakeholders will be closely watching the response from ISRO regarding any revisions in launch procedures or vehicle modifications. Further announcements may focus on timelines for upcoming launches and enhancements in the PSLV’s technical specifications.
Pending insights from the investigative committees are expected to highlight specific areas for improvement, which could bolster the agency’s protocol for future operations. The national pride associated with ISRO’s missions underlines the importance of turning these challenges into avenues for future triumphs.
Conclusion
In summary, ISRO faces substantial challenges following the recent PSLV failures, with critical reflections on both operational and technical aspects of its rocket missions. The robust history of PSLV places significant weight on these recent setbacks, emphasizing the need for rapid and effective resolutions.
The Indian space agency must leverage its previous experiences and the expertise of its workforce to overcome these challenges and restore confidence in its capabilities as the nation moves forward in the ever-expanding realm of space exploration.