Anvesha, also known as EOS-N1, was a defence-oriented hyperspectral Earth observation satellite carried on ISRO’s PSLV-C62 mission, which suffered a trajectory deviation during its third stage.
ISRO’s PSLV-C62 mission, the first major Indian space launch of 2026, was aimed at placing the EOS-N1 (Anvesha) hyperspectral Earth observation satellite and 15 co-passenger payloads into orbit to strengthen India’s defence surveillance and support civilian applications, but the mission suffered a trajectory deviation during the rocket’s third stage.
What was Anvesha?
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Anvesha, officially designated EOS-N1, was a hyperspectral imaging satellite developed for the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). It was designed to enhance India’s space-based surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities.
Why was it called a “spy satellite”?
Anvesha is described as a spy or surveillance satellite because of its advanced hyperspectral sensors, which go beyond conventional optical imaging. Unlike normal satellites that capture images in a few colour bands, hyperspectral sensors analyse hundreds of narrow wavelength bands, allowing the satellite to detect the chemical and material signatures of objects on the ground.
This makes it particularly useful for:
- Detecting camouflaged military assets
- Identifying troop movement and concealed equipment
- Differentiating natural terrain from man-made structures
- Monitoring sensitive border and strategic regions
Key features of Anvesha (EOS-N1)
- Payload type: Hyperspectral Earth observation
- Developer: DRDO, with ISRO launch support
- Weight: About 1,710 kg
- Imaging capability: Material and chemical fingerprint detection
- Primary role: Strategic surveillance and reconnaissance
Civilian and dual-use applications
Although primarily meant for defence, Anvesha was also designed for dual-use purposes, including:
- Mineral and resource mapping
- Agricultural health monitoring
- Environmental assessment
- Urban and infrastructure planning
What happened to Anvesha?
Anvesha was onboard PSLV-C62, which suffered a trajectory deviation during the third stage of flight. ISRO confirmed an anomaly and began data analysis. As a result, the satellite failed to reach its intended orbit, and the mission’s objectives were not achieved.
Why Anvesha mattered
Anvesha represented a major step in:
- Strengthening India’s space-based intelligence
- Reducing reliance on foreign satellite data
- Advancing hyperspectral surveillance technology
In short, Anvesha was India’s advanced hyperspectral “eye in space”, intended to spot what ordinary satellites cannot — especially in defence and strategic monitoring.
Published: 12 Jan 2026, 03:14 pm IST
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