India’s Space Leap: ISRO Readies Historic Satellite Refueling Mission in 2026

ISRO will launch India’s first satellite refueling mission on January 12, 2026, using the PSLV-C62 rocket from Sriharikota. The mission will carry Tamil Nadu based startup OrbitAID Aerospace’s AayulSAT, a pioneering payload designed to extend satellite lifespans by enabling in-orbit refueling and servicing.

Key Highlights of the Mission

🚀 ANNOUNCEMENT

OrbitAID Aerospace is set to launch AayulSAT, India’s first on-orbit refueling mission, aboard ISRO’s PSLV-C62 this month 🇮🇳🛰️@isro @INSPACeIND @NSIL_India @unicornindia @TheStartupTN @iiscbangalore @ISpA_India @SIA_Ind pic.twitter.com/uik0FLWCeU

— OrbitAID Aerospace (@OrbitAID) January 5, 2026

• Launch Date & Vehicle: January 12, 2026, aboard PSLV-C62 from Sriharikota.
• Primary Payload: EOS-N1 (Anvesha), an advanced Earth observation satellite with hyperspectral imaging capabilities.
• Historic Payload: AayulSAT by OrbitAID Aerospace — India’s first satellite refueling payload.
• Co-passengers: 18 additional satellites, including international collaborations.
• Technology Demonstration: AayulSAT will showcase SIDRP (Satellite In-orbit Docking and Refueling Platform).

Why This Matters

• Extends satellite lifespan by enabling refueling beyond design limits.
• Reduces space debris through servicing instead of abandonment.
• Positions India globally in orbital servicing infrastructure.
• Highlights private-sector innovation via OrbitAID Aerospace.

Mission Comparison

Feature	EOS-N1 (Anvesha)	AayulSAT (OrbitAID)
Type	Earth Observation Satellite	Satellite Refueling Payload
Purpose	Hyperspectral imaging for security & surveillance	Extend satellite lifespan, reduce debris
Developer	ISRO	OrbitAID Aerospace (startup)
Global Significance	Strategic imaging capability	India’s first orbital servicing tech
Innovation	Advanced imaging sensors	SIDRP docking & refueling system

Risks & Challenges

• Docking and refueling in orbit requires extreme precision.
• Reliability concerns after PSLV-C61 failure.
• Need to align with international orbital servicing protocols.