ISRO Forms Expert Team to Investigate PSLV Launch Failures

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is addressing concerns over repeated failures of its PSLV rocket by forming a specialized committee of retired scientists. This team, led by prominent figures Somanath and K. Raghavan, will investigate the causes behind these failures, including potential organizational issues. The recent failures of PSLV C-61 and PSLV C-62 have raised alarms, marking the first time in PSLV's history that two consecutive missions have failed. The committee is expected to deliver its findings to ISRO's chairman by April, with implications that could extend to other rockets as well.

By Narendra Chaudhary Feb 25, 2026, 16:19 IST

Concerns Arise Over PSLV Failures

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is facing growing concerns due to repeated failures of its reliable rocket, PSLV. For the first time, a team of retired scientists has been assembled to analyze these failures, alongside an internal team. Two leading scientists, Somanath and K. Raghavan, will thoroughly investigate every aspect of the PSLV failures. A trusted source from ISRO indicated that the team will also explore whether there are any "organizational" factors contributing to these setbacks.

Special Committee Established

To restore confidence in the PSLV, ISRO has tasked former chairman S. Somanath and former scientific advisor to the Prime Minister K. Vijay Raghavan with a special assignment. A committee comprising these two scientists has been formed to systematically and methodically examine the various aspects of the PSLV failures. According to a statement released by ISRO, a national-level expert committee has been established to review the discrepancies encountered in the PSLV launch vehicle. Notably, this marks the first time in the nearly 32-year history of PSLV that two consecutive missions have failed.

Recent Launch Failures

On May 18, 2025, PSLV C-61 launched the C-band synthetic aperture radar satellite EOS-09, aimed at monitoring national borders and mapping enemy positions. However, approximately 6 minutes and 20 seconds into the launch, PSLV deviated from its intended trajectory. Subsequently, on January 12, 2026, PSLV C-62 also strayed from its path around the same time frame, preventing the deployment of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) hyperspectral imaging satellite EOS N-1 (Anvesh) along with 15 other satellites into Earth's orbit.

Report Expected Soon

According to high-ranking sources within ISRO, the expert committee is expected to submit its report to ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan before April. In addition to technical aspects, the committee will investigate whether organizational issues played a role in the PSLV failures. The committee will also scrutinize the manufacturing, procurement, and assembly processes of various rocket components. Sources suggest that due to several similarities, the findings could impact other rockets as well.