Source: TOI
Context:
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched CMS-03 (GSAT-7R), India’s heaviest communication satellite to date, aboard the LVM3-M5 rocket from Sriharikota, strengthening India’s strategic and high-throughput communication capabilities.
About CMS-03 (GSAT-7R):
- Type: Next-generation multi-band communication satellite.
- Purpose: Provide secure, high-capacity communication links for government, defence, maritime, and disaster management operations.
- Payload: Multi-band coverage including C, Ku, and Ka bands for versatile applications.
- Coverage: Indian mainland and wide oceanic regions, supporting maritime connectivity.
- Mission Life: 15 years with high-throughput transponders for broadband and satellite internet services.
- Significance: Replaces ageing GSAT-7 series, integrating advanced technology for secure defence communications and potential 5G applications.
About LVM3-M5 Launch Vehicle:
- Type: Launch Vehicle Mark-III (LVM3), nicknamed “Baahubali”.
- Purpose: Heavy-lift rocket capable of placing 4-tonne satellites into Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO).
- Configuration: Three-stage rocket — two S200 solid boosters, one L110 liquid stage, and C25 cryogenic upper stage.
- Track Record: Eight consecutive successful missions, including Chandrayaan-3 (2023), establishing it as India’s heavy-lift workhorse and a future launcher for Gaganyaan crewed missions.
