GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 16 Jan: The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved the establishment of the Third Launch Pad (TLP) at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. This significant decision marks a major step in advancing India’s space capabilities, particularly in light of the expanding vision of the Indian Space Programme during the Amrit Kaal.
Key Highlights of the Third Launch Pad Project
The TLP project aims to create infrastructure for Next Generation Launch Vehicles (NGLV) and serve as a standby for the existing Second Launch Pad (SLP) at Sriharikota. The new launch pad will also enhance the capacity for future Indian human spaceflight missions and support the nation’s growing ambitions in space exploration.
Features and Implementation Strategy
- Universal Configuration: The TLP will be designed to handle NGLV, LVM3 with a semicryogenic stage, and scaled-up configurations of NGLV.
- Industry Participation: Maximum industry involvement will be leveraged, utilizing ISRO’s expertise in establishing earlier launch pads while sharing existing launch complex facilities.
- Timeline: The project is targeted for completion within 48 months (4 years).
Funding and Expenditure
The total project cost is estimated at ₹3984.86 Crore, covering the establishment of the launch pad and associated facilities.
Impact on Space Ecosystem
The new infrastructure will significantly boost the Indian space ecosystem by:
- Enabling higher launch frequencies.
- Enhancing national capacity for human spaceflight and exploration missions.
- Supporting India’s ambitious goals of establishing the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS) by 2035 and achieving an Indian Crewed Lunar Landing by 2040.
Background and Rationale
India’s space transportation systems currently rely on two launch pads:
- First Launch Pad (FLP): Operational for over 30 years, supporting PSLV and SSLV missions.
- Second Launch Pad (SLP): Primarily used for GSLV and LVM3 missions, including the successful Chandrayaan-3 mission.
With the increasing complexity and scale of India’s space missions, including the development of heavier launch vehicles with advanced propulsion systems, the existing infrastructure is insufficient to meet future demands. The Third Launch Pad will cater to these evolving requirements and ensure readiness for the next 25–30 years.
Conclusion
The approval of the Third Launch Pad underscores the government’s commitment to advancing India’s space capabilities and securing its position as a leading spacefaring nation. This project of national importance will not only strengthen India’s space infrastructure but also fuel innovation and collaboration in the country’s space ecosystem.
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