ISRO Set to Launch Heaviest Satellite from Indian Soil
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is preparing for the landmark launch of its CMS-03 communication satellite, the heaviest ever to be launched from Indian soil, onboard the LVM3-M5 rocket on Sunday.
Key Mission Details
- Satellite: CMS-03 communication satellite (4,410 kg)
- Rocket: LVM3-M5 (dubbed ‘Bahubali’)
- Launch Time: 5:26 PM, November 2
- Orbit: Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO)
- Significance: Heaviest satellite launched from India
The 43.5-meter tall LVM3-M5 rocket has been fully assembled and moved to the second launch pad for final pre-launch operations, ISRO confirmed on Saturday.
About the LVM3 Rocket
LVM3 (Launch Vehicle Mark-3) is ISRO’s heavy-lift launch vehicle designed to place 4,000 kg spacecraft into GTO cost-effectively. The three-stage vehicle features:
- Two solid motor strap-ons (S200)
- Liquid propellant core stage (L110)
- Cryogenic stage (C25)
This configuration provides ISRO complete self-reliance in launching heavier communication satellites. The rocket, also known as GSLV MkIII, is capable of carrying 4,000 kg to GTO and 8,000 kg to Low Earth Orbit.
Mission Objectives
The CMS-03 multi-band communication satellite will provide services over a wide oceanic region including the Indian landmass. This marks the fifth operational flight for the LVM3 series.
The previous LVM3 mission successfully launched Chandrayaan-3, making India the first country to land near the lunar South Pole in 2023.
Technical Specifications
The S200 solid rocket boosters, developed at Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre in Thiruvananthapuram, provide the initial thrust for liftoff. The third L110 Liquid Stage is powered by two Vikas engines designed at the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre.
While GSAT-11 (5,854 kg) remains the heaviest satellite built by ISRO, it was launched from French Guiana in 2018. CMS-03 represents India’s growing capability to launch heavy payloads domestically.
