ISRO Scales New Heights with Heaviest Satellite Launch and Cryogenic Stage Test
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) achieved a dual triumph on November 2, 2025, reinforcing India's growing prowess in space technology. ISRO successfully launched its heaviest communication satellite, CMS-03, aboard the Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM3-M5) rocket from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. Weighing approximately 4,400 kg, the CMS-03 (also referred to as GSAT-7R in some reports) is the heaviest communication satellite ever launched from Indian soil into Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO). This multi-band satellite is poised to significantly enhance communication capabilities, particularly for the Indian Navy across the Indian Ocean Region, providing secure voice, data, and video communications.
In a related and equally significant development, ISRO also revealed the successful in-orbit testing of its indigenously developed C25 cryogenic stage. This crucial milestone involved firing the thrust chamber of the C25 engine while in space during the CMS-03 mission. This test provides invaluable data on engine performance in microgravity conditions, marking a pivotal step for ISRO's future heavy-lift capabilities and enhancing the precision and efficiency of multi-satellite deployment missions. The C25 stage is integral to the LVM-3 launch vehicle, and its successful in-flight demonstration bolsters confidence in India's self-reliant cryogenic engine technology, benefiting flagship programs like the Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission and proposed space station projects.
PM Modi Inaugurates ESTIC 2025 and Unveils ₹1 Lakh Crore R&D Fund
Further bolstering India's scientific and technological ecosystem, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the first Emerging Science and Technology Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) 2025 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. During the inauguration, the Prime Minister launched the ambitious ₹1 Lakh Crore Research Development and Innovation (RDI) Scheme Fund. This fund is designed to promote a robust private sector-driven research and development ecosystem in the country, encouraging greater industry participation in innovation and technological advancement.
The three-day conclave, running from November 3 to 5, 2025, brings together over 3,000 participants, including Nobel laureates, eminent scientists, innovators, policymakers, and representatives from academia and industry. ESTIC 2025 features talks by leading scientists, panel discussions, presentations, and technology showcases, fostering collaboration across various sectors. Deliberations at the conclave are set to focus on 11 key thematic areas, including Artificial Intelligence, Advanced Materials & Manufacturing, Bio-Manufacturing, Digital Communications, Electronics & Semiconductor Manufacturing, Emerging Agriculture Technologies, Health & Medical Technologies, Quantum Science & Technology, and Space Technologies.
Other Noteworthy Developments
- CALIBRE for AI-Driven Biological Research: The National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS) and the International Centre for Theoretical Sciences (ICTS), under the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), jointly launched CALIBRE – the Centre for Artificial Learning and Intelligence for Biological Research and Education – in Bengaluru. This initiative aims to integrate Artificial Intelligence with biological sciences to address India's scientific and environmental challenges.
- Indigenous Software Defined Radios for Indian Army: The Indian Army has advanced its communication capabilities by signing a contract to procure indigenous Software Defined Radios (SDRs). Developed by DRDO and produced by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), these SDRs enhance network-centric warfare and secure tactical connectivity, aligning with the Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) initiative in defence technology.