ISRO Prepares to Launch India’s Heaviest Communication Satellite Aboard LVM3-M5

ISRO is set to make history again with the launch of CMS-03, India’s heaviest communication satellite, weighing over 4,400 kg. Scheduled for November 2, 2025, the satellite will be placed in a Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) using the LVM3-M5 rocket, also known as 'Bahubali' for its heavy-lift capability. This mission underscores India’s growing self-reliance in launching large communication satellites.

CMS-03: India’s Heaviest Satellite on Domestic Launch

The CMS-03 satellite, with a weight of approximately 4,410 kg, will be the heaviest satellite launched from Indian soil. It is designed to provide multi-band communication services over India and a wide oceanic region. The satellite’s large payload capacity will improve telecommunication, broadcasting, and data services across the country and neighboring maritime regions.

LVM3-M5 Rocket: India’s Heavy-Lift Vehicle

The CMS-03 will be launched aboard the LVM3-M5 rocket, India’s new heavy-lift launch vehicle. Standing 43.5 meters tall, the rocket has been nicknamed 'Bahubali' for its ability to carry payloads exceeding 4,000 kg. LVM3-M5 is a three-stage vehicle, designed to efficiently deliver heavy communication satellites to Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit.

Stages of LVM3-M5

1. S200 Solid Rocket Boosters – Two powerful solid boosters provide the thrust required for liftoff. Developed at ISRO’s Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) in Thiruvananthapuram, these boosters ensure a smooth and powerful ascent during the initial phase of the mission.

2. L110 Liquid Core Stage – The core stage is liquid-fueled and powered by two Vikas engines developed at ISRO’s Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC). This stage propels the rocket through the Earth’s atmosphere after booster separation.

3. C25 Cryogenic Stage – The cryogenic upper stage provides the final push needed to place the payload into GTO. This stage is critical for achieving precise orbital insertion.

Launch Pad and Pre-Launch Preparations

The LVM3-M5 rocket, fully assembled with CMS-03, has been moved to the second launch pad at the Sriharikota spaceport for pre-launch operations. ISRO has completed final integration and system checks, ensuring a safe and precise launch. Liftoff is scheduled for 5:26 PM IST on November 2.

Previous Achievements and Milestones

The LVM3 series, also known as GSLV MkIII, has a successful track record. Its most recent mission was the Chandrayaan-3 lunar landing in 2023, which made India the first country to land near the lunar South Pole. The heaviest satellite previously launched by ISRO was GSAT-11, weighing 5,854 kg, which was launched from French Guiana in 2018 aboard an Ariane-5 rocket.

Mission Objective

CMS-03 aims to expand India’s communication coverage, offering services across the Indian landmass and surrounding oceanic areas. Equipped with multi-band communication capabilities, the satellite will enhance telecommunication networks, data transmission, and broadcasting infrastructure.

Significance of LVM3-M5 for India

The LVM3-M5 strengthens India’s self-reliance in launching large-scale communication satellites. With a GTO payload capacity of 4,000 kg and Low Earth Orbit (LEO) capability of 8,000 kg, the rocket allows ISRO to carry heavier satellites for national and commercial purposes. The successful launch of CMS-03 will further consolidate India’s position in the global space market.

Conclusion

The upcoming CMS-03 launch is a major milestone for ISRO, showcasing advanced engineering, heavy-lift capability, and India’s growing competence in space technology. With LVM3-M5, India can reliably place large satellites into orbit, enabling better communication services and technological independence.