On a crisp Sunday morning, the countdown clock at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC-SHAR) began its final tick-tock as India prepared for another landmark space mission. The 43.5-metre-tall LVM3-M5, affectionately nicknamed ‘Bahubali’, stood ready on the second launch pad to carry the country’s heaviest communication satellite yet – CMS-03 – into space

This launch marks a significant stride in India’s space self-reliance, strengthening the nation’s high-capacity communication network and bolstering defence capabilities across land, air, and sea.

CMS-03: India’s heaviest communication satellite

Weighing 4,410 kg, CMS-03 is the heaviest communications satellite India has launched from its own soil into a Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO).

Designed as a multi-band, multi-mission satellite, CMS-03 will enhance communication services over vast oceanic zones surrounding the Indian subcontinent, far beyond terrestrial coverage limits.

Strategically, the satellite will reinforce naval, air, and maritime networks, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity for critical operations, especially for the Indian Navy. It will link warships, aircraft, and remote maritime stations, making it a crucial addition to India’s secure communication framework.

LVM3-M5: The powerhouse launcher

Nicknamed ‘Bahubali’ for its strength and reliability, the LVM3 (Launch Vehicle Mark-3), in its fifth operational mission (M5), serves as the carrier for this historic flight.

The three-stage launcher includes:

  • Two S200 solid rocket boosters providing liftoff thrust.
  • A liquid-propellant core stage (L110) powered by Vikas engines.
  • A cryogenic upper stage (C25) using indigenously developed cryogenic technology.

This robust configuration enables LVM3 to carry up to 4,000 kg into GTO and 8,000 kg into Low Earth Orbit (LEO).

LVM3 has been the backbone of several major ISRO missions, including Chandrayaan-3, which successfully landed near the Moon’s south pole in 2023. The rocket’s proven track record underscores its role as India’s most powerful operational launcher.

Mission timeline and details

  • Mission name: LVM3-M5/CMS-03
  • Launch date: Sunday, 2 November 2025
  • Time: 17:26 IST (5:26 pm)
  • Launch site: Second Launch Pad, Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota
  • Target orbit: Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO), from where CMS-03 will gradually transition to its final geostationary position.

As per ISRO’s latest update, the vehicle integration is complete, and all systems are “go” for the scheduled launch.

Where to watch the launch live

ISRO will broadcast live coverage of the LVM3-M5/CMS-03 Mission through its official website, YouTube channel, and social-media platforms.

Space enthusiasts can also visit the dedicated ISRO mission page for detailed brochures, mission profiles, and streaming links.

Strengthening India’s space communications future

The successful deployment of CMS-03 will not only expand India’s satellite communication capacity but also mark another step toward indigenous technological advancement in space systems.

By mastering heavier payload launches and developing cutting-edge communication satellites, ISRO continues to position India as a global space power, capable of handling complex, high-payload missions.

With CMS-03, India inches closer to achieving self-reliant, secure, and globally competitive space infrastructure – ensuring that the nation’s voice and vision stay connected, even beyond its borders