ISRO has achieved a significant milestone by successfully launching its GSLV-F15 rocket, which carried the NVS-02 satellite, marking its 100th mission. This event took place at 6:23 AM on Wednesday from the Indian Space Research Organisation's launch facility in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.“This mission is the 100th launch from our launchpads, which is a very significant milestone for India,” stated ISRO Chairman V Narayanan. This launch also represents Narayanan's inaugural mission since he assumed leadership on January 16.The GSLV-F15 mission is notable as it is the eighth operational flight of India's Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle equipped with an indigenous cryogenic stage. The NVS-02 satellite is a crucial addition to the NavIC constellation, enhancing capabilities in terrestrial, aerial, and maritime navigation as well as precision agriculture. Narayanan expressed his satisfaction with the launch, declaring, “I am extremely happy to announce from the spaceport of ISRO that the first launch of this year, 2025, has been successfully accomplished with GSLV-F15 precisely injecting the navigation satellite NVS-02 into its intended geostationary transfer orbit.
”Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his congratulations to ISRO on this historic achievement via social media, highlighting the dedication and commitment of Indian scientists and engineers. He emphasized that collaboration with the private sector would propel India's space endeavors to new heights. Union Minister of State for Space Dr. Jitendra Singh remarked that this 100th launch signifies a transformative leap in India's space sector. He noted ongoing developments such as the construction of a third launch pad in Sriharikota and plans for a new site in Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu, which was inaugurated by Prime Minister Modi last February. Despite the significance of the occasion, there were no grand celebrations at the launch center. ISRO scientists maintained their routine demeanor, exchanging smiles and handshakes before proceeding to their scheduled meetings, as Wednesday remained a regular working day. Reflecting on ISRO's legacy, former Chairman Gopalan Madhavan Nair remarked on the agency's unique culture of designing and manufacturing rockets under one roof—a practice he noted predates similar efforts by companies like SpaceX. Overall, this launch not only underscores India's advancing space capabilities but also sets the stage for future ambitions in satellite navigation and exploration.