ISRO Set to Launch 101st Satellite RISAT-18

ISRO Set to Launch 101st Satellite RISAT-18 for National Security & Surveillance

India is all set for another landmark in space technology as the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) prepares to launch its 101st satellite – RISAT-18. Scheduled for May 18, 2025, this mission will deploy the Earth Observation Satellite (EOS) using the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C61) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre.

The launch of RISAT-18 is not just a technological feat, but a strategically crucial mission aimed at enhancing India’s national security, disaster management, and remote sensing capabilities.

🚀 Key Highlights of RISAT-18 Launch

1. 101st Satellite Launch by ISRO

ISRO continues to strengthen its reputation as one of the world’s most reliable space agencies with the upcoming launch of RISAT-18. This marks its 101st satellite launch, a testament to India’s consistent progress in space exploration and satellite development.

The satellite will be launched aboard the PSLV-C61, known for its reliability and precision in deploying Earth observation and surveillance satellites into sun-synchronous orbits.

2. Enhancing National Security & Disaster Management

The Radar Imaging Satellite (RISAT-18) is designed to support real-time surveillance, terrain mapping, border monitoring, and natural disaster response. With advanced synthetic aperture radar (SAR) technology, RISAT-18 can capture high-resolution images even in adverse weather and nighttime conditions.

This capability is particularly valuable for:

• Border security monitoring

• Coastal surveillance

• Flood, landslide, and earthquake response

• Agricultural monitoring

By improving India’s space-based surveillance infrastructure, RISAT-18 will significantly strengthen national safety mechanisms.

3. ISRO’s Commitment to National Priorities

ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan emphasized that the organization’s missions are deeply rooted in India’s national interests. Unlike the race to compete globally, ISRO focuses on solving real-world challenges, advancing indigenous technologies, and supporting governance through accurate data and analytics.

In his words, “Our mission is driven by India’s diverse requirements—from agriculture and disaster preparedness to national defense. We build what the country truly needs.”

🛰️ Why RISAT-18 Matters for India

India’s security, economic development, and disaster response all benefit from enhanced satellite imaging capabilities. RISAT-18 represents a strategic investment in space-powered infrastructure, allowing Indian agencies to make faster and more informed decisions in critical scenarios.

Moreover, in a time where space dominance is an emerging element of global power, India’s autonomous capability to launch and manage high-resolution imaging satellites is vital for its geopolitical positioning.

📚 Relevance for Competitive Exam Aspirants

For aspirants of UPSC, State PSC, SSC, Banking, and other government exams, this launch is a highly relevant topic under:

• Science & Technology

• Internal Security

• Disaster Management

• India’s Space Missions

• Current Affairs

At The Prayas India, we ensure that students are prepared with in-depth coverage of such high-impact topics through:
✅ Daily Current Affairs
✅ Issue-Based Discussions
✅ Integrated GS Modules
✅ Science & Tech Special Sessions

The launch of RISAT-18 is more than a technological achievement—it’s a strategic leap for India in national security, governance, and space innovation. As ISRO continues to fulfill its mission of empowering India through space, RISAT-18 stands as a bold step forward in ensuring safety, self-reliance, and space-based leadership.

Stay tuned to The Prayas India for the latest updates, in-depth analysis, and exam-relevant coverage of India’s most important scientific and strategic milestones.