Sriharikota (Andhra Pradesh), Dec 24 (PTI) The successful launch of the Bluebird Block-2 satellite aboard the LVM3-M6 rocket has strengthened India’s confidence in its human spaceflight programme, Gaganyaan, ISRO Chairman V Narayanan said on Wednesday.
He underscored the critical role of the LVM3 rocket, the vehicle designated for carrying Indian astronauts into orbit and returning them safely to Earth.
“Today, it is a very important mission for us. This is the vehicle which is human-rated and identified for the Gaganyaan programme. With nine consecutive successful LVM3 launches, our confidence in Gaganyaan has increased. This is also a mandated requirement,” Narayanan told reporters.
The Chairman highlighted the precision of the launch: “We targeted a 520 km circular orbit and placed the satellite at 518.5 km—just 1.5 km below target. This is one of the best launches globally and the most accurate ever achieved on Indian soil.”
He also noted the significance of the payload: “Today’s launch carried the heaviest satellite ever launched from India—5,908 kg. The LVM3 vehicle demonstrated one hundred per cent reliability.”
Technological upgrades were introduced to enhance the rocket’s performance, including the S200 solid motor control system. “Earlier, we used an electro-hydro actuator, a very complex system. For the first time, India developed a high-power electro-mechanical actuator, improving payload capacity by around 150 kg,” he explained.
Mission Director T Victor Joseph emphasised the mission’s efficiency: “For the first time, we conducted back-to-back LVM3 launches within 52 days, requiring meticulous coordination across multiple centres. These advancements put ISRO in a stronger position for future missions, including Gaganyaan.”
Regarding a one-minute lift-off delay, Narayanan said: “Scientists continuously monitor the rocket and satellite path. If space debris is expected, timing is adjusted. Every country follows this procedure based on orbit requirements.”
P Mohan, Acting Chairman and MD of NewSpace India Ltd, noted growing global demand for LVM3. “With nine successful launches, international companies are requesting up to six missions per year from 2026-27. NSIL is proud to serve as the interface between AST SpaceMobile from the USA and the Department of Space,” he added.
Category: Breaking News
SEO Tags: #swadesi, #News, LVM3-M6 Launch Strengthens India’s Gaganyaan Programme