Sriharikota – In a major milestone for India’s space programme, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on Sunday successfully launched the CMS-03 communication satellite, the heaviest ever launched from Indian soil, aboard the next-generation LVM3-M5 ‘Bahubali’ rocket.
The 4,410-kg CMS-03 satellite lifted off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, marking another remarkable achievement in India’s growing space capabilities.
Flawless Launch and Mission Success
The lift-off, streamed live by ISRO, showcased stunning visuals from on-board cameras capturing every phase — from ignition to stage separations and orbital insertion.
After a precise countdown, the LVM3-M5 soared into the sky, powered by two massive S200 solid rocket boosters, followed by the L110 liquid core stage driven by twin Vikas engines.
The CMS-03 satellite was successfully injected into the Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) with high accuracy, drawing applause from the Mission Control Centre.
“The 4410 kg satellite has been precisely injected into orbit. This marks yet another shining example of Atmanirbhar Bharat,” said ISRO Chairman and Department of Space Secretary, Dr. V. Narayanan, shortly after the launch.
About CMS-03: India’s Heaviest Communication Satellite
The CMS-03 is a multi-band communication satellite designed to provide advanced telecommunication and data services across India and surrounding oceanic regions.
Built to function for at least 15 years, the satellite will play a key role in boosting national communication networks, maritime connectivity, and emergency response systems.
ISRO noted that CMS-03’s capabilities are a major leap forward in supporting high-speed data transmission and improving digital infrastructure across India’s farthest territories.
LVM3-M5: The ‘Bahubali’ of Indian Rockets
The LVM3-M5 earned the title ‘Bahubali Rocket’ for its massive payload-carrying capacity. ISRO chief Dr. Narayanan praised the vehicle for its consistent performance and reliability.
The LVM3 series, India’s most powerful launch vehicle to date, earlier powered the historic Chandrayaan-3 mission in 2023, which successfully landed on the Moon’s south pole — a global first.
With the CMS-03 mission, the LVM3 has now completed eight consecutive successful launches, achieving a 100% success rate.
A Step Toward India’s Space Self-Reliance
The successful deployment of CMS-03 strengthens India’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat in space technology. It enhances the nation’s communication infrastructure while showcasing ISRO’s expertise in heavy-lift missions and satellite innovation.
Experts say the CMS-03’s success not only underscores India’s technical prowess but also paves the way for future high-capacity communication satellites and strategic missions.
Key Highlights of CMS-03 Launch
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Satellite Name: CMS-03
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Launch Vehicle: LVM3-M5 ‘Bahubali’
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Launch Site: Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota
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Weight: 4,410 kg (Heaviest launched from Indian soil)
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Orbit: Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO)
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Mission Duration: Minimum 15 years
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Purpose: Advanced communication and data services
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Previous LVM3 Missions: 8 successful (including Chandrayaan-3)
India’s Growing Space Ambition
The CMS-03 launch reinforces India’s position as a global leader in cost-effective and reliable space technology. With more ambitious missions — including Gaganyaan (India’s first human spaceflight) and NISAR (a NASA-ISRO joint Earth observation mission) — on the horizon, ISRO continues to push the boundaries of innovation and excellence.
As the “Bahubali” rocket roared into the skies, it carried not just a satellite — but India’s unstoppable dreams of self-reliance, innovation, and global leadership in space.
