PSLV & NVS-02 Failure: ISRO Transparency and Accountability Debate

The recent NVS-02 and PSLV failures have triggered debate not merely about technical lapses but also about transparency and accountability in publicly funded scientific institutions. 

Technical Background of the NVS-02 Failure

• Launch Context: NVS-02 was launched by GSLV but failed to reach the intended orbit.
• Root Cause: The primary fault was traced to a loose electrical connector in the oxidiser valve control circuit, which disrupted the command signal and prevented the oxidiser valve from opening.
• Redundancy Failure: Both primary and backup lines also failed. This indicates a critical lapse in redundancy architecture, as the backup system did not provide the expected fail-safe protection
• Outcome: The satellite failed to achieve the planned orbit, resulting in a partial mission failure.

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Transparency Concerns

• Limited Disclosure: ISRO remained silent for nearly one year after the failure.
  • Only a brief press statement was issued. A detailed failure analysis was not made public.
  • No individual or institutional responsibility was formally specified.
  • A clear, time-bound systemic reform plan was not disclosed.
• Perception Issue: The response has been viewed as “declassifying under duress” rather than proactive transparency.
• Investigation Initiated: A committee was constituted to examine the technical causes of the failure.
• Corrective Measures: The identified learnings were reportedly implemented across subsequent missions, and LVM-3 M5 (Nov 2025) was successfully placed GSAT-7R into precise orbit.

Reasons for these problems to be concerning

• Credibility Issue: PSLV, ISRO’s most reliable workhorse, experienced a critical failure.
• Systemic Signals: Back-to-back failures indicate potential structural issues.
• Possible Gaps: Quality-control lapses, manufacturing-process weaknesses, and oversight deficiencies.
• Institutional Response: A high-level committee was constituted to examine systemic concerns.

Historical Contrast: 1979 vs 2025

• SLV-3 Failure (1979): Satish Dhawan addressed the press personally and took full responsibility on behalf of ISRO.
  • Detailed failure analysis was publicly shared, establishing a norm of scientific openness and leadership accountability.
• NVS-02 Failure (2025): Information was released after a significant delay, with no comprehensive public failure report.

Reasons For Signifcance of Transparency in Public Institutions

• Democratic Accountability: As a taxpayer-funded institution, ISRO is accountable to citizens. Transparency upholds the principle of public accountability.
• Trust Capital Formation: Open disclosure strengthens long-term institutional legitimacy and public trust.
• Catalyst for Systemic Reform: Transparent acknowledgement of failures enables structural corrections and prevents recurrence.
• Enhancement of Global Credibility: Openness reinforces India’s reputation as a responsible and mature space power.
• Constitutional Governance Ethos: Democratic systems require that all state institutions function with transparency, responsibility, and ethical integrity.

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Conclusion

While secret or sensitive information should remain protected, ISRO must share basic technical details and accountability measures to build confidence among investors, the public, and the government.

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