India’s space agency has achieved a significant milestone by successfully launching its heaviest satellite to date, further strengthening the country’s position in the global space and satellite industry. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) confirmed that this was the heaviest payload ever launched from Indian soil.
According to ISRO, the LVM3-M6 launch vehicle carried the US-built AST SpaceMobile communication satellite into low Earth orbit. The satellite weighs approximately 6,100 kilograms (13,448 pounds), making it the largest and heaviest payload launched by India so far.
The successful mission highlights the rapid progress of India’s low-cost space programme, which aims to provide reliable and affordable launch services for international partners. The launch also supports India’s broader ambitions, including upcoming uncrewed orbital missions and future human spaceflight plans.
ISRO officials said the mission underlines India’s growing role in the commercial satellite market, which is expanding quickly as telecom and internet companies seek advanced, wide-coverage communication solutions. India is actively competing for a larger share of this global business by offering cost-effective and efficient launch capabilities.
Looking ahead, India plans to conduct an uncrewed orbital mission before its first human spaceflight, scheduled for 2027. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also announced an ambitious plan to send Indian astronauts to the Moon by 2040, signaling the country’s long-term commitment to space exploration.
Earlier this year, ISRO had launched the CMS-03 communication satellite, which weighed around 4,410 kilograms. The latest launch surpasses that record, marking a new chapter in India’s space achievements and commercial launch capabilities.
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