India’s latest Earth observation satellite EOS-05 has successfully completed its first orbit-raising manoeuvre, taking it closer to its designated geosynchronous orbit at 85.5° East. The manoeuvre was carried out on September 5 at 8.19 pm, with the satellite’s Liquid Apogee Motor firing for 5,406.4 seconds.
Following the operation, EOS-05 is estimated to be in an orbit of 20,000 km by 31,129 km. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) said further manoeuvres would be conducted to place the satellite in its operational orbit.
EOS-05 was launched aboard GSLV-F17 from Sriharikota on September 4 and initially placed in a sub-geosynchronous transfer orbit. Weighing 2,367 kg, it is the heaviest satellite launched by a GSLV so far.
Once operational, EOS-05 is expected to provide high-frequency Earth imaging and continuous monitoring of large geographical regions. Its operational life is estimated at about nine years.