India has taken another leap in its space ambitions. A historic launch was concluded from Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. And this one is special because it boosts India's individual capabilities.
The Indian Space Research Organisation, or ISRO, launched its heaviest ever communication satellite into the geostationary transfer orbit, which is over 35,000 kilometers above Earth. So far, India was heavily reliant on foreign private space agencies to launch its bulky satellites.
A wave of support and wishes came from India's top political leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah.
"Powered by our space scientists, it is commendable how our space sector has become synonymous with excellence and innovation. Their successes have furthered national progress and empowered countless lives," the prime minister wrote.
The bulk of LVM3-M5 rocket was the CMS-03, a multiband communication satellite that weighs 4,410 kg. It now hovers in the geostationary orbit by syncing its speed to the Earth's rotation.
The CMS-03 is one of Indian Navy's most powerful satellites. It provides real-time communication for naval operations, air defence and strategic command control across a wide oceanic region.
LVM3-M5 rocket
The towering 143-foot tall LVM3-M5 launch vehicle was used for the launch. Making its debut in 2014, the rocket is an upgraded version of the one that sent up Chandrayaan-3.
India has made ambitious space plans for the coming decades. ISRO is planning India's first human spaceflight in early 2027. At least 7 more launches are scheduled till March 2026.
The LVM3 rocket is capable to carry payload to GTO weighing 4,000 kg and for Low Earth Orbit payloads of 8,000 kg with its powerful cryogenic stage. The two S200 solid rocket boosters located on the sides of the rocket provide the thrust required for lift off.
The S200 boosters are developed at Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, Thiruvananthapuram. The third stage is L110 Liquid Stage and is powered by two Vikas engines designed and developed at the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre.
