India’s space program, led by ISRO, has witnessed significant technological progress over the decades. From launching its first satellite to reaching the Moon and Mars, here are eight landmark rocket missions that showcase India’s growing space capabilities.
SLV-3: India’s First Satellite Launch (1980)
India entered the elite group of spacefaring nations in 1980 with the successful launch of the SLV-3 rocket. The mission placed the Rohini RS-1 satellite into low Earth orbit, marking the country’s first indigenously developed satellite launch.
Chandrayaan-1: First Lunar Mission (2008)
Chandrayaan-1 was launched aboard PSLV-C11 and was India’s maiden mission to the Moon. The mission was notable for discovering water molecules on the Moon’s surface, a significant breakthrough in lunar science.
PSLV-C37: World Record for Satellite Launch (2017)
ISRO set a world record by launching 104 satellites in a single mission using the PSLV-C37 rocket. This demonstrated India’s capability to handle multiple payloads and complex launch configurations with precision.
GSLV-D5: Indigenous Cryogenic Engine Success (2014)
The GSLV-D5 mission marked India’s first successful use of a domestically developed cryogenic upper stage engine. This achievement was crucial for advancing India’s self-reliance in launching heavier satellites.
Chandrayaan-2: Advanced Lunar Exploration (2019)
Launched aboard GSLV Mk III-M1, Chandrayaan-2 aimed to explore the Moon’s south polar region. While the lander did not succeed, the orbiter remains operational and continues to send valuable lunar data.
Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan): Mars Endeavor (2013)
Launched on PSLV-C25, Mangalyaan made India the first Asian country to reach Mars orbit. It was also the first nation to do so successfully on its maiden attempt, showcasing ISRO’s interplanetary capabilities.
SSLV-D2: Solution for Small Satellite Launches (2023)
The launch of SSLV-D2 was aimed at serving the increasing demand for deploying small satellites. The rocket offers a cost-effective and agile platform for quick launches of low-weight payloads.
Chandrayaan-3: First Lunar South Pole Soft Landing (2023)
India made history with Chandrayaan-3, launched aboard LVM3-M4, by becoming the first country to successfully achieve a soft landing near the Moon’s south pole. The mission marked a significant step in deep space exploration.
