India Successfully Test Launches Its Heaviest Rocket

India has joined the race to the thrilling adventures of space exploration. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully tested out its heaviest rocket in a test launch on Thursday. The Indian space agency also tested the functions of an unmanned crew on the vehicle, which would provide the option of future manned missions.

The Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) Mark III, tested by ISRO, would be made operational so it can carry heavier satellites that weigh up to about four tonnes safely into space and aid in an effective orbiting path. Officials are of the opinion that when GSLV Mark III becomes fully operational, it will be able to carry even the most heaviest of satellites safely, thereby increasing India's current capabilities in space research by almost double.

The project director of the newest GSLV vehicle, S. Somnath, said, "The powerful launch vehicle ... will change our destiny in placing various spacecraft into communication orbits." This test has officially launched India to becoming a part of the $300-billion industry of global space research.

Although it is a big step for the developing nation, experts are of the opinion that ISRO can make a few more adjustments to make future missions safer and more effective. Mayank Vahia of the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research said, "We still need to put a heavier third engine to ensure this vehicle can be used successfully for manned missions and heavier satellite launches."

The current prime minister of India, Narendra Modi, intends to develop the country's space research programme and has increased funding for space research by almost 50 percent to $1 billion for 2014. India seems unwilling to be left behind when it comes to space research.