The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has commenced the process of developing a third launchpad at its existing spaceport in Sriharikota. This initiative aims to support the launch of heavier satellites and next-generation launch vehicles, enhancing India's capabilities in both human spaceflight and space exploration. The new launch pad is projected to be operational in four years.
The decision to construct a third launchpad stems from the increasing demand for greater lift capabilities to accommodate satellites weighing over 12,000 to 14,000 kg. ISRO's current infrastructure includes two operational launch pads: the First Launch Pad (FLP), which has been in use for over 30 years and primarily supports PSLV and SSLV missions, and the Second Launch Pad (SLP), which has been operational for nearly 20 years and is used for GSLV and LVM3 missions. The new launchpad will serve as a crucial addition, capable of handling heavier payloads and next-generation launch vehicles.
Padmakumar ES, Director and Distinguished Scientist at Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC), Sriharikota, confirmed that ISRO has begun the procurement phase and is identifying suitable vendors to support this mega project. The construction of the third launchpad is not just about increasing capacity; it's also about incorporating updated launch protocols and testing methodologies to accommodate the unique requirements of the New Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV). The NGLV will be integrated horizontally and tilted, a departure from the vertical integration process used for existing launch vehicles. This necessitates a redesigned launch pad with a different jet deflector.
The Union Cabinet approved the establishment of the Third Launch Pad (TLP) at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. The TLP project is estimated to cost Rs. 3984.86 crore and is targeted for completion by March 2029. Key milestones include civil works by May 2028, fluid and propellant systems by July 2028, and launch facility integration by September 2028. The TLP will not only support the NGLV but will also be adaptable to LVM3 vehicles, including those with semi-cryogenic stages, and future scaled-up versions of the NGLV.
Located about 135 km east of Chennai, the Sriharikota launch complex spans 175 square kilometers and has been a critical hub for Indian space launches since 1971. The addition of the third launchpad is expected to significantly boost India's space ecosystem by enabling higher launch frequencies and supporting ambitious missions such as the Bharatiya Antariksha Station (Indian Space Station) by 2035 and a crewed lunar landing by 2040.
In addition to the third launchpad, ISRO is also constructing a new Launch Complex for Small Satellite Launch Vehicles (SSLVs) at Kulasekarapattinam, Tuticorin District, Tamil Nadu. This complex will cater to the launch of smaller satellites, weighing around 500 kg, into Low Earth Orbit (LEO). Kulasekarapattinam's location near the equator offers a strategic advantage, allowing for direct southward launches over the Indian Ocean, minimizing fuel consumption and maximizing payload capacity for SSLVs.
