ISRO CMS-03: ISRO Achieves Another Milestone: 'Bahubali' Satellite CMS-03, Weighing 4400 kg, Successfully Launched
ISRO CMS-03 - ISRO Achieves Another Milestone: 'Bahubali' Satellite CMS-03, Weighing 4400 kg, Successfully Launched
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has achieved another historic milestone by successfully launching its most advanced communication satellite, CMS-03 (also known as GSAT 7R), for the Indian Navy. This satellite is set to Notably strengthen the Indian Navy's space-based communication and maritime domain awareness capabilities, marking a new chapter in the nation's maritime security.
Successful Launch of the 'Bahubali' Rocket
On Sunday, ISRO propelled the CMS-03 communication satellite, weighing over 4400 kilograms, into space using the LVM3-M5 rocket from the second launch pad at SDSC/ISRO Sriharikota, while this launch is a significant landmark for India, as the satellite, weighing approximately 4,410 kilograms, is the heaviest satellite ever launched from Indian soil into Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO). The LVM3-M5 rocket has been dubbed 'Bahubali' due to its heavy-lift capability, a prowess it has once again demonstrated with this successful mission.Strategic Importance for the Indian Navy
The CMS-03 communication satellite stands as the most advanced communication satellite for the Indian Navy to date. It has been specifically developed to meet the operational requirements of the Indian Navy, incorporating several indigenous state-of-the-art components. These advancements will enable the Navy to enhance its communication systems and more effectively track its presence in the maritime domain. The satellite will empower the Navy to receive and share real-time information, which is crucial for maritime surveillance and security operations.ISRO's Statement and Technical Details
Three-Stage Launch Process
ISRO, headquartered in Bengaluru, stated that the launch vehicle was fully prepared and integrated with the spacecraft, then moved to the second launch pad for pre-launch operations, while iSRO further clarified that LVM3 (Launch Vehicle Mark-3) is ISRO's new heavy-lift launch vehicle. It's designed to place 4,000 kg class spacecraft into GTO in a cost-effective manner, thereby providing India with self-reliance in launching heavy satellites.
This three-stage launch vehicle is equipped with two solid motor 'strap-ons' (S200), a liquid propellant core stage (L110), and a cryogenic stage (C25). This design provides ISRO with complete self-reliance in launching heavy communication satellites weighing up to 4,000 kg into GTO. ISRO scientists also refer to LVM3 as the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) MK3. However, there has been no official statement from ISRO regarding claims that the satellite will also be used for military surveillance.Fifth Operational Flight of LVM3-M5
ISRO stated that this mission marks the fifth operational flight of LVM3-M5. Previously, on December 5, 2018, ISRO had launched its heaviest communication satellite, GSAT-11, weighing approximately 5,854 kg, from the Kourou launch center in French Guiana via the Ariane-5 VA-246 rocket. While GSAT-11 remains the heaviest satellite built by ISRO, CMS-03 holds the distinction of being the heaviest satellite launched from Indian soil.Multi-Band Communication Services and Future Capabilities
ISRO announced that the primary objective of Sunday's mission is for the multi-band communication satellite CMS-03 to provide services across a wide maritime region, including the Indian landmass. This satellite will cater to various communication needs, benefiting not only the Navy but also other critical sectors. The LVM3 vehicle, with its powerful cryogenic stage, is capable of carrying a payload of 4,000 kg to GTO and 8,000 kg to Low Earth Orbit (LEO), showcasing its versatility.Another Step After Chandrayaan-3's Success
It's noteworthy that the same LVM-3 rocket previously carried out the successful launch of Chandrayaan-3,. Through which India became the first country to successfully land near the Moon's south pole in 2023. The successful launch of CMS-03 is another significant step in ISRO's continuously growing capabilities and in establishing India as a global leader in space technology. This mission adds another glorious chapter to India's space journey.