The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has achieved a remarkable milestone—its 100th mission. This landmark accomplishment highlights India’s growing space capabilities, and ISRO is already setting ambitious goals, planning another 100 missions in the next five years.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated ISRO on X, praising the dedication of scientists and engineers. He also emphasized the increasing role of private companies in India’s space endeavors. “Congratulations to @isro on this historic 100th launch! This milestone reflects the vision and commitment of our scientists. With private sector collaboration, India’s space journey will continue to soar,” Modi stated.
Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister of State for Science & Technology, also acknowledged the achievement. He paid tribute to early space pioneers like Vikram Sarabhai and Satish Dhawan and noted that India’s space sector has made tremendous progress under the current administration.
PSLV: The Backbone of ISRO’s Success
Since its first rocket launch in 1979, ISRO has relied heavily on the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV). Out of the 100 missions completed, PSLV alone has carried out 62 successful launches. It has placed key satellites into orbit, including the Chandrayaan-1 lunar probe in 2008 and the Mars Orbiter Mission in 2013.
Standing 44.4 meters tall, the PSLV can carry payloads of up to 1,750 kg to a 600 km orbit. Its adaptability has made it one of ISRO’s most trusted launch vehicles.
Other Rockets in ISRO’s Fleet
While PSLV has been the workhorse, ISRO has also utilized other rockets for different missions. The Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV), featuring an advanced cryogenic engine, has completed 17 launches. The LVM3, formerly known as GSLV Mk III, has successfully flown seven times, while the SSLV (Small Satellite Launch Vehicle) has carried out three missions. Additional vehicles, including the Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV) and Test Vehicles (TV), further expand ISRO’s capabilities.
Sriharikota: India’s Space Launch Hub
All ISRO missions take off from Sriharikota, a spaceport located 135 km from Chennai. The facility has been perational since 1993, with a second launch pad added in 2005 to accommodate increasing missions.
The Future of India’s Space Program
ISRO’s journey to 100 launches took 46 years, but the next 100 are expected to be completed in just five years. With growing private sector participation and advancements in space technology, India is positioning itself as a key player in global space exploration.