The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) marked a historic milestone on Wednesday with the successful launch of its 100th rocket from Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. The Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle F-15 (GSLV-F15) carried the NVS-02 navigation satellite, further strengthening India’s NavIC satellite navigation system. This was the first launch under ISRO’s new chairman, V. Narayanan, making it a momentous occasion for the agency. The early morning launch saw the rocket precisely place the satellite into its intended orbit, showcasing India’s growing prowess in space technology. Shortly after the mission, ISRO released a breathtaking onboard video capturing the rocket’s journey, with the agency calling it “a view like no other” in a post on X.
The GSLV-F15 rocket, once dubbed the “naughty boy” of ISRO due to its high failure rate, has faced significant challenges over the years. With a 37% failure rate across 16 previous launches, the vehicle has often been a source of concern for Indian space scientists. However, this successful mission marks an important step in reinforcing the reliability of the GSLV series. Unlike the newer and highly dependable Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM-3), which boasts a 100% success rate, the GSLV has required constant improvements. This mission was the seventeenth flight of the GSLV and the eleventh to feature an indigenous cryogenic stage, a technology that India spent decades mastering after facing global restrictions on cryogenic engine technology transfer.
This landmark mission underscores ISRO’s growing self-reliance in space technology and its capability to support India’s strategic and commercial satellite needs. The NVS-02 satellite is part of the NavIC system, which provides crucial navigation services for civilian and military applications. The successful launch also highlights India’s progress in the global space race, where ISRO continues to develop cost-effective and efficient space solutions. With this 100th mission, India further cements its position as a key player in space exploration, paving the way for future ambitious projects, including human spaceflight and interplanetary missions.
