Transformation of ISRO’s GSLV: From Infamous to Reliable

The Indian Space Research Organisation has achieved yet another milestone with the successful launch of INSAT-3DS meteorological satellite into space, facilitated by its GSLV F14 launch vehicle. This achievement signifies a significant turnaround for the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mk-II (GSLV-MkII), which has historically faced challenges earning it the moniker of the ‘naughty boy’ of ISRO due to a series of launch failures and technical issues.

The GSLV’s evolution from its infamous reputation to its current status as a reliable launch vehicle is noteworthy. With the recent successful placement of the INSAT-3DS satellite into the Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit, the GSLV has now completed its second consecutive successful mission. Previously, it successfully deployed the NVS-01 satellite for India’s satellite-based navigation system, NavIC. These back-to-back achievements have effectively dispelled the GSLV’s notorious reputation, leading the mission director to proudly declare its transformation from a ‘naughty boy’ to a disciplined performer.

ISRO Chairman S Somanath emphasized the notable improvement in the GSLV’s performance, stating, “So far, the rocket and satellites have performed very well,” during a media briefing following the INSAT-3DS launch. Mission Director Tomy Joseph echoed this sentiment, remarking that the GSLV has matured into an obedient and disciplined launch vehicle, akin to ISRO’s reliable Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV).

The reliability and efficacy of the GSLV have significantly increased over time, as highlighted by S Unnikrishnan Nair, Director of the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre. Its utilization of a home-built Cryogenic Upper Stage, generating substantial thrust, has enabled the launch of two-ton communication satellites into orbit. Despite initial setbacks, ISRO’s perseverance led to the development of the GSLV-Mark III, equipped with an indigenous cryogenic engine (C25), further enhancing its capabilities.

Renamed as the Launch Vehicle Mark III (LVM3), it is now capable of deploying satellites weighing up to four tonnes into Geostationary Transfer Orbit (GTO) and up to eight tonnes into low earth orbits. This transformation underscores ISRO’s commitment to innovation and continuous improvement, solidifying the GSLV’s position as a robust and reliable launch vehicle in India’s space endeavors.