Geostationary Satellite Launch Vehicle Mk.

3
Successfully Launched
Geostationary Satellite Launch Vehicle Mk. 3 is a fully indigenous, heavy duty rocket
that can carry up to 10 metric tons of cargo into low Earth orbit and up to 4 metric tons
of communication satellites into geostationary transfer orbit. This 139 foot tall rocket has
a speed of 5.3 km/sec and a peak altitude of 126 km.
GSLV Mk 3 is a next-generation launcher, which was launched from the spaceport of
Satish Dhawan Space Center, Sriharikota, on at 9.30 am on 18 December 2014.
The primary objective of this mission was to validate the complex atmospheric ascent,
especially, the aerodynamics and control features of this all new launcher.
The first developmental flight will come into force in another two years. The launch also
tested India's capability for re-entry of crew module, which can also be a prelude
towards human space flight.
The total cost of the project is $400 million and the 18 December launch alone has a
cost 24 million.
The rocket returned to Earth after reaching its peak altitude of 120 km, 21 minutes after
liftoff and splashed into the Bay of Bengal nearly 1000 miles SE from the launch pad.
The Indian Coast Guard retrieved the craft from Indira Point and handed it over for
inspections and further investigation. The Mk-III also tested the recovery of a dummy
crew module from sea. The success of the module will be the core for a future Human
Space Project.
GSLV Mk-III is conceived and designed to make India fully self-reliant in launching
heavier communication satellites of INSAT-4 class, which weigh 4,500 to 5,000 kg.
This capability would greatly enhance Indias projection as a competitive player in the
multimillion dollar commercial launch market.
2014 has been an exceptional year for ISRO, as the present test mission was preceded
by the launch of Mars Orbiter, the successful debut of a cryogenic rocket engine, and a
string of successful launches to build out the countrys satellite navigation network.

Also please read previous blog on ISRO http://www.olivegreens.co.in/blog/isro-blazesnew-horizons-mars-orbitter-mission-mangalyan-successful