The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has announced an ambitious plan to complete seven major space missions by March 2026, including the much-anticipated uncrewed test flight under the Gaganyaan project. Following the successful launch of India’s heaviest satellite CMS-03 atop the LVM3-M5 rocket from Sriharikota, ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan said that preparations for the next series of flights are well underway.

The Bengaluru-based organisation is presently integrating hardware for the first Gaganyaan test flight, known as the G1 Mission, which is scheduled to take place before the end of the fiscal year. These uncrewed missions will put critical technologies like crew safety, re-entry, and life-support mechanisms to the test, setting the stage for India’s first human space journey.

As part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s goal of 50 launches in five years, ISRO’s forthcoming schedule includes one more LVM3 commercial mission, three PSLV launches, and a GSLV-F17 flight. Industry experts lauded the CMS-03 launch as a significant boost to India’s heavy-lift and communication capabilities. The 4,410 kg satellite replaces GSAT-7 and improves India’s maritime communication network. Narayanan stated that ISRO’s dedicated efforts will continue to reinforce India’s status as a world leader in space technology.