GSAT 7R: ISRO to launch India's heaviest communication satellite from Sriharikota

The GSAT 7R weighs a massive 4,400 kilogrammes, making it the heaviest communication satellite the nation has developed so far

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is making space history with the planned launch of the country’s heaviest-ever communication satellite on Sunday. The powerful spacecraft, officially named GSAT 7R (or CMS-03), is scheduled to lift off at 5:26 PM IST from the space centre in Sriharikota.

This new satellite is a major achievement for India.

It weighs an immense 4,400 kilogrammes, making it the heaviest communication satellite the nation has developed so far.

To carry this massive payload, ISRO is relying on its trusted LVM3-M5 rocket. This is the same powerful launch vehicle that successfully carried India’s historic Chandrayaan-3 mission, which landed near the Moon’s South Pole.

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The GSAT 7R is crucial for the Indian Navy.

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It is a multi-band communication satellite, specially designed to boost the Navy’s communication and monitoring capabilities. Its main purpose is to strengthen the defence force’s ability to communicate reliably and track activities across the wide oceanic region surrounding the Indian landmass.

Navy officials confirmed that the satellite uses advanced, India-made technology and components that were created specifically to meet their operational needs.

The launch sequence is carefully planned. The LVM3-M5 rocket will first place the CMS-03 into a high path called the Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO). Following the separation from the vehicle, the satellite will begin its mission in space.

This launch will be a big step for India’s defence technology and help strengthen our maritime security. ISRO will provide a live stream of the launch on its official YouTube channel for everyone to watch this important event.