ISRO launched its CMS-03 communication satellite, weighing 4,410 kg, to a Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) onboard the 43.5-metre-tall LVM3-M5 rocket.
The Indian Space and Research Organisation (ISRO) on Sunday reached a new milestone by launching its heaviest communication satellite on an Indian rocket and placing it in orbit.
ISRO launched its CMS-03 communication satellite, weighing 4,410 kg, to a Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) onboard the 43.5-metre-tall LVM3-M5 rocket, known as ‘Bahubali’ for its heavy-lift capability. The launch took place from the second launch pad of the Satish Dhawan Space Station in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, at 5:26 pm.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Vice President CP Radhakrishnan congratulated ISRO on the feat, lauding India’s excellence in space innovation. ISRO Chairman V Narayanan said the space agency plans to carry out seven launch missions in the next five months.
A Historic Launch: Top Points
- The communication satellite CMS-03 is a multi-band communication satellite and would provide services over a wide oceanic region, including the Indian landmass, according to ISRO. It is also a replacement to the GSAT 7 series, launched in 2013.
- VM-3, previously known as Geosynchronous Launch Vehicle Mark 3 (GSLV Mk 3), is a three-stage launch vehicle that includes two solid motor strap-ons (S200), a liquid propellant core stage (L110), and a cryogenic stage (C25). It is dubbed ‘Bahubali’ for its capabilities in launching heavier communication satellites up to 4,000 kg in GTO and 8,000 kg in Low Earth Orbit (LEO).
- All eight LVM 3 launches, including its experimental mission, have been successful, achieving a 100% success rate. ISRO scientists also demonstrated the re-ignition of the thrust chamber of the C-25 cryogenic engine after it placed the satellite in orbit.
- PM Modi congratulated ISRO, saying, “Powered by our space scientists, it is commendable how our space sector has become synonymous with excellence and innovation.”
- “This indigenously developed satellite will strengthen space-based communications, connectivity, and maritime domain awareness across the Indian Ocean Region, marking another proud milestone in Aatmanirbhar Bharat,” said VP Radhakrishnan.