After two PSLV failures, ISRO targets June for next launch, rules out Sabotage

Union Science and Technology Minister Jitendra Singh on Monday said the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will attempt the next launch of its workhorse rocket PSLV in June, following two consecutive mission failures, and firmly dismissed any suggestion of sabotage.

Addressing a press conference, Singh explained that the failures of PSLV-C61 in May 2025 and PSLV-C62 in January 2026 were caused by different technical issues . Using an analogy, he said: “Last time a bulb fused, this time there was a tripping outside.” Both missions, which carried Earth observation satellites along with co-passenger payloads, failed during the third stage of the flight , preventing the satellites from reaching their intended orbits. In the case of PSLV-C62, all 16 satellites onboard were lost , though a Spanish experimental capsule successfully transmitted data.

Singh emphasised that no evidence of sabotage has been found , and the organisation is addressing the setbacks through separate internal and external failure assessment committees to analyse each mission. He also noted that the failure of the NVS-02 navigation satellite last year was due to malfunctioning spacecraft thruster valves, highlighting that these incidents are technical rather than deliberate.

Despite the setbacks, Singh said ISRO’s credibility remains intact . Foreign customers and private investors continue to trust the organisation, with 18 launches scheduled in 2026 , including six for private companies , none of which have been cancelled. Singh further noted that three major international launches from Japan, the US, and France are planned next year, with no apprehension from the respective agencies.

On the June launch, Singh said ISRO is ambitiously targeting the date , contingent on screening reports, rectifying issues, and certifying the rocket for flight , while cautioning that last-minute changes can occur due to technical uncertainties. He concluded that ISRO’s resilience, evidence-based approach, and proven expertise continue to inspire confidence both domestically and internationally.