LVM3 Rocket Boosts Confidence for Gaganyaan Mission

The Indian Space Research Organisation has reaffirmed confidence in its human spaceflight ambitions following the successful launch of the BlueBird Block-2 communication satellite using the LVM3 rocket. ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan highlighted that the same launch vehicle has been earmarked for the upcoming Gaganyaan programme, underlining India’s growing technological maturity in space exploration.

LVM3’s Perfect Success Record

Speaking to the media, ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan emphasised that the LVM3 rocket has maintained a 100 per cent success rate since 2017. He noted that this flawless performance significantly strengthens confidence as the rocket undergoes human-rating for the Gaganyaan mission. According to him, the consistent success of LVM3 provides a strong foundation to move forward with India’s first crewed spaceflight programme.

BlueBird Block-2 Launch and Commercial Significance

ISRO successfully launched the BlueBird Block-2 communication satellite of US-based AST SpaceMobile from the Satish Dhawan Space Station, Sriharikota, at 8:55 am IST. The satellite was placed accurately into its intended orbit, and the mission was declared a success. The BlueBird Block-2 spacecraft is the heaviest payload ever launched into Low Earth Orbit by the LVM3 rocket, marking a milestone in India’s heavy-lift launch capability and its role in the global commercial launch market.

Broader Vision: Gaganyaan and Chandrayaan Missions

V. Narayanan also stated that Chandrayaan-4 and Chandrayaan-5 have been approved, reflecting continuity in India’s deep-space exploration roadmap. Referring to the success of Chandrayaan-3, he noted that technologically advanced nations, including Japan, have expressed interest in collaboration. He asserted that India is now on par with leading spacefaring nations, showcasing strength through proven technological achievements.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• LVM3 is ISRO’s heavy-lift launch vehicle for human spaceflight.
• Gaganyaan is India’s first crewed space mission.
• BlueBird Block-2 is the heaviest payload launched by LVM3 into LEO.
• Chandrayaan-3 achieved India’s first soft landing near the lunar south pole.

Political Leadership and Strategic Impact

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the LVM3-M6 mission as a proud milestone, stating that it strengthens India’s heavy-lift capabilities and reinforces its expanding role in the global space economy. He described the achievement as reflective of the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and congratulated India’s space scientists and engineers for propelling the country to greater heights in space exploration.