At 2:55 AM on September 4th, while most of India was fast asleep, a different story was unfolding on the island of Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh. Across mission control rooms, launch complexes, and tracking stations nationwide, approximately 16,500 scientists, engineers, and support staff from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) were grappling with fatigue, pressure, and high expectations. Exactly 19 minutes later, at 3:14 AM, they had every reason to celebrate.
Smiles and handshakes were exchanged all around.
Science Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh hailed it as “another giant leap for India in space!” He congratulated the ISRO team on the successful launch of GSLV-F17/EOS-05. EOS-05 is a state-of-the-art Earth Observation Satellite and India’s first imaging satellite deployed from a geosynchronous orbit, capable of advanced imaging across visible, infrared, multi-spectral, and hyper-spectral bands.
India’s space agency returned to the launch pad following a challenging period marked by a series of setbacks involving its reliable Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) rocket. This time, the atmosphere was filled with relief, thunderous applause, and renewed confidence, as the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV-F17) successfully delivered the EOS-05 Earth Observation Satellite to its destination in space. This mission was far more than just another launch; it was proof that ISRO retained the resilience to overcome adversity, regroup, and make a comeback.
This success is particularly significant as it came at a time when India’s launch capabilities were being called into question. The Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV)—long considered ISRO’s ‘workhorse’ (its most reliable rocket)—faced consecutive failures in 2025 and January 2026. These setbacks compelled ISRO to initiate an in-depth investigation.
The PSLV fleet remains grounded while engineers conduct tests and implement improvements before clearing it for flight. It should also be noted that sabotage played no role in the previous failures; the behavior of rockets is notoriously complex—which is why the phrase “it’s not rocket science” exists—and is a key reason why so few nations attempt regular rocket launches. This marked the 107th launch of a major rocket from Sriharikota.
Under these circumstances, the entire responsibility fell upon the GSLV Mk II—affectionately, and sometimes anxiously, dubbed ISRO’s “Naughty Boy.”
It did not earn this nickname without reason; the rocket had failed six times out of nineteen launches. Its journey has been turbulent and often dramatic. Yet, paradoxically, this very rocket has emerged as one of the most significant symbols of India’s technological independence.
The story dates back to the early 1990s, when India urgently required cryogenic engine technology to launch heavy communication satellites. Cryogenic engines—which utilize super-cooled liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen—represent one of the most advanced propulsion systems in rocketry.
Initially, India sought assistance from Russia. However, geopolitical pressures and a US-led technology denial regime complicated the transfer. Russia eventually supplied a limited number of cryogenic engines but withheld the full technology India desired. The message was clear: India could purchase rockets but could not learn to manufacture them.
This setback could have jeopardized India’s long-term goals. Instead, it sparked one of the most magnificent indigenous development efforts in the history of the Indian space program. ISRO scientists spent 20 years mastering this incredibly complex technology. Despite facing repeated failures, delays, and disappointments, India persevered.
That dedication turned the GSLV Mk II into the jewel in ISRO’s crown. Today, every successful flight serves as a reminder that attempts to withhold technology could not halt India’s space journey.
That is why Friday’s success held such emotional significance. It was not merely another GSLV mission; it was a celebration of self-reliance and scientific perseverance.
On the morning of September 4, while much of the country was just waking up, ISRO had already accomplished one of its most crucial tasks of the year.
The “Naughty Boy” had finally grown up.
And on that rainy morning, it truly behaved like a sensible child.