The heaviest communication satellite launched from Indian soil was successfully placed into orbit on Sunday, according to ISRO. The satellite, CMS-03, weighs 4,410 kg and flew aboard an LVM3-M5 rocket.
This success marks a significant achievement for the Indian space agency. CMS-03 is a multi-band communication satellite that will provide services over a vast oceanic region, including India, as stated by ISRO.
India’s heaviest satellite launched by ISRO
The satellite reached the desired Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO). It replaces the GSAT 7 series, which was launched in 2013. ISRO Chairman V Narayanan confirmed that the launch vehicle successfully positioned the satellite into the required orbit. He mentioned, “The 4,410 kg satellite is precisely injected.” In his post-launch speech from the Mission Control Center, he referred to the LVM3 satellite as ‘Bahubali’ due to its heavy-lift capability.
He noted that the rocket’s last mission was the “most prestigious Chandrayaan 3,” which brought pride to the nation. On Sunday, it achieved “yet another pride” by successfully launching a heavier satellite. All eight LVM3 launches, including the experimental mission, have been successful, giving them a 100 percent success rate.
Communication services for 15 years
The satellite will provide communication services for at least 15 years. Narayanan, who is also the Secretary of the Department of Space, described it as “yet another shining example of Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India).” He acknowledged that ISRO scientists faced challenges due to uncooperative weather but praised their hard work and dedication.
Before this launch, the Indian space agency relied on the Kourou launch base in French Guiana and Ariane rockets from Arianespace for sending heavier satellites into space. On December 5, 2018, ISRO launched its heaviest communication satellite, GSAT-11, which weighs 5,854 kg, aboard an Ariane-5 VA-246 rocket from French Guiana.
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