Blitz Bureau
NEW DELHI: INDIA’S space agency ISRO successfully launched the LVM3-M5 rocket from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota on November 2. The rocket carried CMS-03, the country’s heaviest communication satellite ever sent to space. It marked the fifth operational flight of the LVM3 launcher.
This satellite is the Indian Navy’s most advanced communication platform till date, which will provide greater efficiency to its space-based communication system and maritime domain awareness capabilities.
It incorporates several advanced indigenous technological components specifically developed to meet the operational and strategic requirements of the Indian Navy.
“Weighing about 4,400 kilograms, CMS-03 is India’s heaviest communication satellite ever launched to a Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO). The satellite will provide multi-band communication services across India and nearby ocean regions. It will boost secure data, voice, and video links for both civilian and strategic use.
ISRO Chairman Dr V Narayanan praised the team and said the launch shows India’s strength in building and launching heavy satellites. Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated ISRO scientists on X, calling the success proof that India’s space sector stands for “excellence and innovation.”
Union Minister of State for Science & Technology (Independent Charge), Jitendra Singh lauded the achievement and said ‘X’, “Congratulations to the ISRO team. India’s Bahubali is soaring in the skies with the successful launch of the LVM3-M5 mission. ‘Bahubali,’ as it is popularly known, the LVM3-M5 rocket is carrying the CMA-03 communications satellite, the heaviest satellite ever launched into geosynchronous transfer orbit (GTO) from Indian soil. ISRO is notching one success after another. Thanks to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the government’s unwavering support.” The mission strengthens India’s communication network and marks another proud milestone for the nation’s growing space journey.