Sriharikota, India – In a display of its growing prowess in space technology, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched the CMS-03 communication satellite aboard the LVM3-M5 rocket from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota today. The LVM3-M5, dubbed 'Bahubali' for its heavy-lift capabilities, lifted off at 5:26 PM (IST), carrying India's heaviest communication satellite to date.
CMS-03, also known as GSAT-7R, is a multi-band communication satellite designed to provide services over a wide oceanic region, including the Indian landmass. Weighing approximately 4,400 kg, it is the heaviest communication satellite launched from Indian soil. The satellite is intended to be placed in a Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO). From there, it will provide enhanced communication capabilities and increased bandwidth for civil, strategic, and maritime users.
The mission is a significant step for India, marking a move towards self-reliance in launching heavier satellites. Previously, ISRO had to rely on foreign space agencies to launch its heavier satellites. The successful launch of CMS-03 demonstrates the growing capabilities of the LVM3 rocket.
The LVM3-M5 is a three-stage launch vehicle that uses solid boosters, liquid propulsion, and a cryogenic stage to deliver heavy payloads into space. The vehicle stands 43.5 meters tall and is capable of carrying payloads up to 4,000 kg to GTO. This was the fifth operational flight of the LVM3. Prior to this launch, the LVM3 had seven consecutive successful missions. Most notably, the LVM3 was also used for the Chandrayaan-3 lunar mission, where India became the first country to successfully land near the Moon's south pole.
The CMS-03 satellite will offer sharper connectivity and increased bandwidth for a variety of applications. It will significantly boost maritime, digital, and emergency communication infrastructure. The satellite will also enhance the Indian Navy's space-based communication and maritime domain awareness. It will replace the GSAT-7 satellite, which was launched in 2013, and will provide real-time communication for naval operations, air defense, and strategic command control across a wide oceanic and terrestrial region. The CMS-03 payload includes transponders for voice, data, and video links over C, extended C, and Ku bands.
The launch of CMS-03 is a major achievement for ISRO and a significant boost to India's communication infrastructure. It underscores India's growing capabilities in space technology and its commitment to expanding its presence in space. ISRO has several ambitious missions planned for the coming years, including Gaganyaan-1, India's first human spaceflight program, Mangalyaan-2, a mission to Mars with an orbiter, lander, and rover, and Shukrayaan-1, a mission to Venus to study its atmosphere. These missions will further solidify India's position as a leader in the international space community.
