The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) marked a historic milestone today with the successful launch of its 100th rocket mission, the GSLV-F15, from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. This significant achievement was underscored by the flawless deployment of the navigation satellite NVS-02 into the Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO).
The launch, which took place in the early hours of the morning, heralded ISRO's first mission of the year and the inaugural flight under the leadership of its new chairman, V Narayanan. The GSLV-F15, part of the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) family, has been a pivotal player in India's space exploration efforts despite its nickname as the 'naughty boy' of ISRO due to a challenging history.
The GSLV-F15's journey to success is particularly noteworthy given its developmental trajectory. Out of 16 previous launches, the rocket had encountered setbacks in six missions, amounting to a 37% failure rate. In contrast, India's latest marvel, the Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM-3) or 'Bahuballi' rocket, boasts a flawless track record with a 100% success rate.
The GSLV-F15 represents a significant milestone in India's space program not only for its operational success but also for its technological prowess. It stands as a testament to India's perseverance in mastering cryogenic engine technology, a feat achieved after two decades of relentless effort following the denial of technology transfer by Russia under pressure from the United States.
The payload fairing of GSLV-F15, with a diameter of 3.4 meters, adds to the technological sophistication of the mission. This flight marked the seventeenth GSLV launch and the eleventh with the indigenous Cryogenic stage, reaffirming India's capability in satellite launch technology.
Hours after the successful launch, ISRO released breathtaking onboard footage from GSLV-F15, showcasing the majesty and precision of India's space endeavors. "A view like no other! India's space programme continues to inspire," ISRO proclaimed on social media, reflecting the pride and enthusiasm surrounding this landmark achievement.
With the 100th rocket mission now etched in history, ISRO looks forward to expanding its horizons further into space exploration, satellite navigation, and beyond, reaffirming India's position as a key player in the global space arena.
For more updates and insights into India's space missions, stay tuned to ISRO's official channels and our ongoing coverage.
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