India’s space agency ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) has revealed an ambitious plan to build its most powerful rocket yet—one that stands as tall as a 40-storey skyscraper and is capable of carrying an astonishing 75,000 kilograms into low Earth orbit (LEO). This groundbreaking development marks a new milestone for India’s space program, reflecting the nation’s steady rise as a global leader in space technology.

The announcement came from ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan during the convocation ceremony at Osmania University, Hyderabad, where he spoke about India’s remarkable journey from humble beginnings under the leadership of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam to designing world-class rockets with unmatched capacity.

From Small Beginnings to Giant Leaps

ISRO’s progress over the decades is nothing short of extraordinary. Narayanan highlighted the stark contrast between India’s first launch vehicle and its futuristic mega-rocket:

The first rocket, developed under Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, had a lift-off mass of 17 tonnes and could place just 35 kg into LEO.

The upcoming 40-storey rocket, however, will be capable of placing 75,000 kg into orbit, making it one of the most powerful rockets in the world.

This leap demonstrates how far India’s space technology has advanced within just a few decades, catching up with—and in some cases, surpassing—other leading space agencies.

Upcoming ISRO Missions and Projects

While the 40-storey heavy-lift rocket is still in the works, ISRO has a busy schedule for 2025 and beyond. Some of the key missions highlighted by Narayanan include:

NAVIC Satellite: Strengthening India’s indigenous navigation system.

N1 Rocket: A new-generation launch vehicle in development.

US Communication Satellite Launch: ISRO will launch a 6,500 kg American communication satellite on an Indian rocket.

Technology Demonstration Satellite (TDS): A key mission for testing advanced technologies.

GSAT-7R Military Satellite: Built for the Indian Navy, this will replace the GSAT-7 (Rukmini), boosting India’s naval communication capabilities.

Currently, India has 55 active satellites in orbit, but ISRO projects that this number will triple in the next three to four years, dramatically expanding India’s space assets.

Significance of the 40-Storey Rocket

The development of a rocket of such magnitude has multiple implications:

Heavy Payload Capability: With 75,000 kg payload capacity, India will be able to launch large satellites, space stations, and even deep space missions more efficiently.

Global Launch Market: India could emerge as a competitive player in the lucrative commercial satellite launch industry, challenging global giants like SpaceX and Arianespace.

Strategic Importance: A mega-rocket enhances India’s defense and communication infrastructure, supporting military as well as civilian needs.

Future Human Missions: This rocket could serve as a stepping stone for India’s long-term ambitions in deep space exploration, lunar bases, and interplanetary missions.

Recognition of Leadership

During the convocation at Osmania University, Narayanan was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Science by Telangana Governor Jishnu Dev Varma. The award was a recognition of his pioneering contributions to India’s space program, from advancing rocket technology to shaping India’s future in space exploration.

Conclusion

ISRO’s plan to develop a 40-storey rocket capable of carrying 75,000 kg into low Earth orbit underscores India’s growing ambitions in the global space race. From a 17-tonne lift-off mass rocket carrying just 35 kg to orbit, to a mega-rocket capable of carrying entire space stations, the journey reflects India’s transformation into a space power to watch.

With upcoming missions like NAVIC, GSAT-7R, and the N1 rocket, India’s space roadmap is packed with innovation, and the mega-rocket project signals that ISRO is not just aiming for the stars—it’s aiming to redefine space exploration on a global scale.

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The post ISRO Developing 40-Storey Mega Rocket: India’s Most Powerful Launch Vehicle to Carry 75,000 kg into Orbit, Upcoming Missions Revealed appeared first on Before You Take.