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The ISRO next launches are expected to include several important missions before the end of the 2026–27 financial year, with the first uncrewed Gaganyaan flight among the key priorities. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is targeting at least five additional launches by March 31, 2027, covering its own launch vehicles and a mission from the private sector.
ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan outlined the plans following the successful launch of the NVS-03 navigation satellite aboard the GSLV-F18 rocket on October 30, 2026. The announcement offers an indication of the agency’s busy launch schedule for the coming months, although specific dates for the missions have not yet been confirmed.
ISRO Next Launches Include Five Planned Missions
ISRO is aiming to complete at least five more launches before the financial year ends on March 31, 2027. The planned missions include at least two Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) flights, two Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) missions and one launch by a private-sector company.
The organisation is working towards a broader target of six launches, while completing at least five remains the immediate priority.
The plan reflects the range of launch activities expected from India’s space programme. PSLV and SSLV missions will support satellite deployment, while the private-sector launch will represent another step in the growing involvement of commercial space companies.
However, ISRO has not yet announced the identity of the private company or provided confirmed launch dates for all the missions.
Gaganyaan-1 Is a Major Priority
Among the ISRO next launches, the first uncrewed Gaganyaan mission is likely to attract particular attention. Known as Gaganyaan-1, or G1, this flight is an important stage in India’s effort to develop an independent human spaceflight capability.
The uncrewed mission is intended to test the spacecraft and associated systems before astronauts are sent into space. It will help engineers evaluate how the crew module and service module perform during different stages of the mission.
ISRO has completed more than 8,000 tests connected with the programme. Teams are also conducting simulations and software-related work for the spacecraft systems.
The Gaganyaan programme requires three uncrewed missions before the first crewed flight. These missions are intended to demonstrate the reliability of the systems and support the preparation required for human spaceflight.
ISRO has not provided a confirmed launch date for Gaganyaan-1. Its inclusion in the planned launches before March 2027 makes it one of the most closely watched developments in India’s space programme.
NVS-03 Launch Strengthens the NavIC System
The successful GSLV-F18 mission on October 30 placed the NVS-03 navigation satellite into its intended Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit. The satellite is part of India’s Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC) system, which provides regional positioning and navigation services.
NVS-03 carries an indigenous rubidium atomic clock, an important component for precise satellite-based navigation. Its deployment is expected to strengthen the existing NavIC network.
With NVS-03, four NavIC satellites are operational, meeting the minimum requirement for providing navigation services. However, the complete constellation is designed around seven satellites to support uninterrupted and highly accurate coverage.
ISRO is preparing two additional satellites for launch, while approval for another satellite is also being processed. These developments are part of the organisation’s wider effort to maintain and strengthen India’s independent navigation infrastructure.
Faster Launch Preparation Shows ISRO’s Operational Progress
The GSLV-F18 mission also highlighted progress in ISRO’s launch preparation process. It was the 20th flight of the GSLV vehicle and followed the previous GSLV mission, F17, which took place on September 4, 2026.
The interval between the two launches was approximately 56 days. This turnaround demonstrates the organisation’s ability to prepare successive missions within a relatively short period.
Maintaining this pace will be important as ISRO works towards its planned PSLV, SSLV and Gaganyaan missions. Each launch involves vehicle preparation, satellite integration, technical checks and coordination across different teams.
The agency’s ability to manage several missions within the remaining financial year will be an important factor in meeting its stated targets.
Private-Sector Participation Remains Part of the Plan
The inclusion of a private-sector launch in the upcoming programme highlights the expanding role of commercial companies in India’s space industry.
Private companies are increasingly participating in areas such as satellite manufacturing, launch vehicle development and supporting space technologies. ISRO’s planned commercial-sector mission is another indication of the growing coordination between government and private organisations.
The company and mission details have not yet been announced. Therefore, the launch should be viewed as part of ISRO’s stated plan rather than a confirmed mission with a published schedule.
What to Expect From ISRO Before March 2027
The months leading up to March 2027 could bring several important developments for India’s space programme. The first uncrewed Gaganyaan flight, additional PSLV and SSLV missions, and a private-sector launch are all included in the organisation’s stated plans.
The NVS-03 deployment has also strengthened the NavIC satellite network, while preparations for additional navigation satellites continue.
Although the exact dates of the ISRO next launches remain subject to official announcements, the target of at least five missions gives a clear picture of the agency’s priorities for the rest of the financial year.
Conclusion
ISRO’s plan to complete at least five more launches before March 2027 marks an important period for India’s space programme. Gaganyaan-1 remains a major priority, while upcoming PSLV and SSLV flights and private-sector participation form part of the wider launch target.
The successful NVS-03 mission has also added momentum to the country’s navigation programme. As preparations continue, the ISRO next launches will be closely followed for their contribution to human spaceflight, satellite deployment and India’s growing space capabilities.