# Launch Vehicle Mark III

> launch vehicle developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation

**Wikidata**: [Q1360911](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1360911)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LVM3)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/launch-vehicle-mark-iii

## Summary
Launch Vehicle Mark III (LVM3) is a medium-lift launch vehicle developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). It is designed to launch satellites into low Earth orbit and geostationary transfer orbit, with a payload capacity of up to 8,000 kg to LEO.

## Key Facts
- Developed by: Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)
- Height: 43.5 meters
- Mass: 640 tonnes (launch weight)
- Diameter: 4 meters
- Payload capacity: 8,000 kg to low Earth orbit, 4,000 kg to geostationary transfer orbit
- Country of origin: India
- Part of family: Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV)
- Aliases: GSLV Mk III, GSLV Mark III, LVM3, LVM-3
- First flight: June 2017 (with GSAT-19 satellite)
- Operator: Indian Space Research Organisation

## FAQs
### Q: What is the payload capacity of Launch Vehicle Mark III?
A: Launch Vehicle Mark III can carry up to 8,000 kg to low Earth orbit and 4,000 kg to geostationary transfer orbit, making it a medium-lift launch vehicle suitable for various satellite missions.

### Q: Who developed Launch Vehicle Mark III?
A: Launch Vehicle Mark III was developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), India's national space agency, as part of their GSLV family of launch vehicles.

### Q: What are the main components of Launch Vehicle Mark III?
A: Launch Vehicle Mark III consists of three stages: two S200 solid rocket boosters, two L110 liquid-fueled strap-on boosters, and a C25 cryogenic upper stage.

## Why It Matters
Launch Vehicle Mark III represents a significant advancement in India's space capabilities, enabling the country to launch heavier satellites and reducing dependence on foreign launch services. As India's most powerful operational launch vehicle, it plays a crucial role in the nation's space program, supporting both civilian and military satellite deployments. The vehicle's development demonstrates India's growing technological prowess in aerospace engineering and its commitment to becoming self-reliant in space access. LVM3 is also a key component of India's ambitious Gaganyaan human spaceflight program, as it will be used to launch crewed missions to low Earth orbit. By providing reliable and cost-effective access to space, Launch Vehicle Mark III strengthens India's position in the global space industry and supports the country's scientific, commercial, and strategic objectives.

## Notable For
- India's most powerful operational launch vehicle
- Capable of launching 4-tonne class satellites to geostationary transfer orbit
- Key vehicle for India's Gaganyaan human spaceflight program
- Successfully launched Chandrayaan-2 lunar mission
- Reduces India's dependence on foreign launch services for heavy satellites

## Body
### Development and Design
Launch Vehicle Mark III was developed by ISRO to address the need for a more powerful launch vehicle capable of carrying heavier payloads. The development program began in the early 2000s, with the goal of creating a vehicle that could launch 4-tonne class satellites to geostationary transfer orbit. The design incorporates advanced technologies, including a cryogenic upper stage, to achieve the required performance.

### Technical Specifications
The vehicle stands 43.5 meters tall and has a diameter of 4 meters. It has a launch mass of 640 tonnes and consists of three stages. The first stage comprises two S200 solid rocket boosters, providing the initial thrust. The second stage includes two L110 liquid-fueled strap-on boosters. The third stage is a C25 cryogenic upper stage, which provides the final boost to place the payload in its intended orbit.

### Launch History
Launch Vehicle Mark III had its first developmental flight on June 5, 2017, successfully launching the GSAT-19 communications satellite. Since then, it has completed multiple successful launches, including missions for the Chandrayaan-2 lunar exploration program and various communication satellite deployments. The vehicle has demonstrated high reliability and performance, establishing itself as a workhorse for ISRO's launch needs.

### Applications and Future Plans
LVM3 is primarily used for launching communication satellites, navigation satellites, and interplanetary probes. It is also a critical component of India's Gaganyaan program, which aims to send Indian astronauts to low Earth orbit. The vehicle's capabilities make it suitable for a wide range of missions, from Earth observation to deep space exploration. ISRO continues to refine and improve the Launch Vehicle Mark III, with plans for further enhancements to increase its payload capacity and versatility.

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## References

1. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
2. [Source](https://www.isro.gov.in/GSLVmk3_CON.html)