The LVM3-M3 mission, also known as OneWeb India-2, was a significant milestone in India's space exploration efforts. Launched on March 26, 2023, this mission successfully deployed 36 OneWeb Gen-1 satellites into low Earth orbit, furthering the global connectivity objectives of the OneWeb constellation. The mission was executed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) using its Launch Vehicle Mark-III (LVM3), marking the sixth consecutive successful flight of this vehicle.

Mission Overview

The LVM3-M3 mission aimed to place 36 OneWeb Gen-1 satellites into a 450 km circular orbit with an inclination of 87.4 degrees. This deployment was part of a broader agreement between OneWeb and NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), the commercial arm of ISRO, to launch a total of 72 satellites into low Earth orbit. The first batch of 36 satellites was successfully launched on October 23, 2022, under the LVM3-M2 mission, also known as OneWeb India-1. The LVM3-M3 mission, therefore, represented the second phase of this collaboration, contributing to the expansion of OneWeb's satellite constellation. ([isro.gov.in](

Launch Details

The launch took place at 09:00:20 IST from the second launch pad at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. The LVM3 rocket carried a total payload of 5,805 kg, including the 36 OneWeb satellites. The vehicle achieved the required altitude of 450 km in approximately nine minutes. Within 17 minutes, it reached the conditions necessary for satellite injection and began deploying the satellites in the twentieth minute. The deployment was executed in nine phases, with four satellites released in each phase, ensuring precise orbital insertion and minimizing the risk of collision among the satellites. ([isro.gov.in](

Technical Achievements

The mission showcased several technical advancements. Notably, the cryogenic stage of the LVM3 rocket featured a new white insulation coating, developed using environmentally friendly manufacturing processes and lightweight materials. This innovation improved insulation properties and reduced the overall weight of the stage. Additionally, the cryogenic stage performed a sophisticated maneuver, orienting itself in orthogonal directions to inject the satellites into precise orbits with defined time gaps, effectively preventing potential collisions. ([isro.gov.in](

Partnership and Global Connectivity

The successful deployment of these satellites underscores the strong partnership between OneWeb and ISRO. This collaboration is pivotal in advancing global connectivity, as the OneWeb constellation aims to provide high-speed internet access to underserved and remote regions worldwide. The LVM3-M3 mission not only contributed to the expansion of this constellation but also demonstrated India's growing capabilities in commercial space launches. ([isro.gov.in](

Future Prospects

The success of the LVM3-M3 mission sets a positive precedent for future collaborations between ISRO and international entities. It highlights the potential for India to play a significant role in the global satellite launch market, leveraging its advanced space technology and cost-effective solutions. The continued success of the LVM3 series of rockets is expected to bolster India's position as a key player in the commercial space industry. ([isro.gov.in](

Sources

  • ISRO — LVM3 M3/OneWeb India-2 mission accomplished successfully —
  • ISRO — LVM3-M3 / OneWeb India-2 Mission —
  • ISRO — Launch of LVM3-M3/OneWeb India-2 Mission from Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR, Sriharikota —