NEW DELHI, Nov 2: In a milestone for India’s space sector, the Indian Space and Research Station (ISRO) launched its heaviest satellite onboard an Indian rocket, dubbed as ‘Bahubali’, at 5:26 pm on Sunday.

ISRO launched its CMS-03 communication satellite, weighing 4,410 kg, to a Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) onboard the 43.5-metre-tall LVM3-M5 rocket, known as ‘Bahubali’ for its heavy-lift capability.

This is the heaviest satellite to be launched from Indian soil and into a GTO, according to the space agency. This is also ISRO’s heaviest satellite to be launched using a home-made rocket.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi commended the launch, calling it a new stride in India’s space sector. “Congratulations ISRO on the successful launch of India’s heaviest communication satellite, CMS-03," he said on X.

“Powered by our space scientists, it is commendable how our space sector has become synonymous with excellence and innovation. Their successes have furthered national progress and empowered countless lives," he added.