The Indian Space Research Organisation managed to launch the country’s heaviest communication satellite, CMS-03, formerly known as GSAT-7R, on Sunday, November 2. The launch was conducted from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota using the LVM3-M5 called as the Bahubali rocket, which is noted for its heavy payload carrying capacity.
This mission strengthens the independent satellite operations of India and boosts maritime communication for the Indian Navy.
LVM3-M5 Launch & Its Importance
The LVM3-M5 lifted off smoothly at precisely 5:26 p.m., carrying CMS-03 to its intended Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit. The mission marked the fifth operational flight of the LVM3, following its last major success of Chandrayaan-3 in July 2023. ISRO declared a perfect injection as it confirmed the separation of the satellite on X.
With more than 4,400 kgs of mass, the satellite is a major milestone in India’s self-reliant satellite communication initiative. It is going to immensely enhance the communication capability and maritime domain awareness of the Navy which will be pivotal for national security operations across oceanic regions.
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Technological Edge of ISRO
ISRO Chairman Dr. V. Narayanan hailed this mission for demonstrating the in-orbit re-ignition of the C25 cryogenic stage for the first time for the country. The innovation will enable future rockets to place multiple satellites in different orbits within one mission.
He also announced that LVM3’s payload capacity was enhanced by 10 percent, reflecting India’s incremental improvement in launch vehicle design. Despite unfavorable weather, the team executed a flawless launch eighth in a row for ISRO with the LVM3 rocket.
What are National Pride & Global Standing
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated ISRO scientists, stating that their work continues to make the nation proud and reinforces India’s leading position in space innovation globally. The success of CMS-03 comes as another milestone after a series of landmark missions like Chandrayaan-3 and Aditya-L1.
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The satellite replaces the earlier GSAT-7 series launched in 2013 and symbolizes India’s growing independence from foreign launch services as France’s Arianespace which was used in the past for heavier payloads such as GSAT-11 in 2018.
CMS-03 Mission: Securing India’s Space Future
The CMS-03 mission by ISRO has cemented its reputation for precision, resilience and innovation. Apart from adding to the strength of the defense communication system, this success is a harbinger of things to come in future missions, including the Gaganyaan human spaceflight program that will employ a human-rated LVM3.
India’s space journey keeps evolving from exploration to self-reliance, closing the gap between science, security and strategy, all from its launchpads.
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Disclaimer: This article is based on official statements, verified reports, and publicly available information from ISRO and government sources
