The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is poised to script another chapter in its illustrious history today. The space agency is all set for the highly anticipated launch of its heaviest rocket, the Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM3), on a dedicated commercial mission. This flight, designated LVM3-M6, will carry a payload of 36 broadband communication satellites for the global customer, OneWeb.
Mission Details and Launch Timeline
The launch is scheduled for December 24, 2025, from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. The launch window opens at 7:50 AM IST. The mission will utilize the reliable LVM3 rocket, which has previously demonstrated its prowess in missions like Chandrayaan-2 and Chandrayaan-3.
This launch is particularly significant as it marks the second dedicated commercial mission for LVM3 and the seventh overall flight of this vehicle. The primary objective is to precisely deploy all 36 OneWeb satellites into a Low Earth Orbit (LEO). Once in orbit, these satellites will join OneWeb's existing constellation to provide high-speed, low-latency broadband internet connectivity across the globe.
The Payload and the Rocket: A Powerful Combination
The star passengers for this mission are the 36 Gen-1 satellites from OneWeb, a global communications network. Each satellite weighs approximately 150 kilograms, making the total payload mass a substantial 5,796 kilograms or nearly 5.8 tonnes. This massive payload underscores the heavy-lift capability of the LVM3 rocket.
The LVM3, standing tall at 43.5 meters, is a three-stage launch vehicle with a proven track record. Its stages include two solid rocket boosters (S200), a core liquid stage (L110), and a cryogenic upper stage (C25). This configuration provides the immense thrust required to carry heavy payloads to their intended orbits. The vehicle has a robust payload capacity of 10,000 kilograms to LEO and 4,000 kilograms to Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO).
Strategic Importance and Live Coverage
This launch is a landmark event for ISRO's commercial arm, NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), which is orchestrating the mission. It reinforces India's growing stature in the competitive global commercial satellite launch market. Successfully placing 36 satellites in a single mission demonstrates remarkable precision and reliability, key factors for international clients.
For space enthusiasts and the nation, the launch will be broadcast live. Viewers can watch the coverage on the official ISRO website (isro.gov.in), its YouTube channel, and on the DD National TV channel. The live broadcast is expected to commence about 20 minutes before the launch time, building up to the thrilling moment of liftoff.
This mission follows a series of successful launches by ISRO in 2025 and serves as a powerful year-end statement. A successful LVM3-M6 launch will not only fulfill a major commercial commitment but also solidify confidence in Indian launch services on the world stage, paving the way for more such partnerships in the future.
