Sun Nov 02 09:40:00 UTC 2025: Summary:
On November 2, 2025, ISRO successfully launched the CMS-03 communication satellite using its LVM3-M5 launch vehicle from Sriharikota. This mission marks a significant achievement as it involves the launch of the heaviest satellite (4,410 kg) from Indian soil using an indigenously developed rocket into a Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO). The LVM3-M5, nicknamed ‘Bahubali,’ is a three-stage heavy-lift launch vehicle enabling ISRO to launch satellites up to 4,000 kg into GTO, enhancing its self-reliance in space missions. The CMS-03 satellite aims to provide communication services over a vast oceanic region, including the Indian landmass.
News Article:
India Launches Heaviest Satellite to Date on Indigenous Rocket
Sriharikota, India – November 2, 2025 – The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) achieved a significant milestone today with the successful launch of the CMS-03 communication satellite aboard its LVM3-M5 launch vehicle. Lift-off occurred from the spaceport in Sriharikota at 5:26 PM IST.
Weighing in at 4,410 kg, CMS-03 is the heaviest satellite ever launched from Indian soil using a home-grown rocket, marking a major step towards self-reliance in space technology. The LVM3-M5, nicknamed ‘Bahubali’ for its heavy-lift capabilities, successfully placed the satellite into a Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO).
“The launch was executed flawlessly, and the CMS-03 is now in its designated orbit,” confirmed an ISRO official.
The CMS-03 is a multi-band communication satellite designed to provide communication services across a wide oceanic region, encompassing the Indian landmass. While speculations remain, ISRO has not officially confirmed if the satellite has military applications.
Today’s launch represents the fifth operational flight of the LVM3 rocket, a three-stage heavy-lift vehicle capable of carrying payloads up to 4,000 kg to GTO. ISRO hails LVM3 vehicle as a cost-effective solution for launching heavier communication satellites. Previous LVM-3 rocket missions include the Chandrayaan-3 mission in 2023, which made India the first country to land near the lunar South pole.
This successful launch cements India’s position as a leading space power and showcases its growing capabilities in developing and launching heavy communication satellites.
First Piper 