Article Posted on : - Feb 24, 2014

The GSLV Mark III vehicle. An ISRO image

PUDUCHERRY (PTI): The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) would carry out an experimental launch of the GSLV Mark III vehicle in May end or June beginning, its Chairman K Radhakrishnan has said.

Currently under development, the GSLV Mark III or Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mark 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.

The three-stage launch vehicle envisages multi-mission launch capability for GTO, LEO, Polar and intermediate circular orbits.

It would also enhance India's competitiveness in the multimillion dollar commercial launch market.

ISRO is also set to send its next satellite, the IRNSS-1B, on board the PSLV C-24 rocket from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota in the last week of March or in the first week of April, the space agency chief told reporters on the sidelines of a function in Puducherry on Sunday.