Why in the News?
Union Cabinet approved the establishment of 'Third Launch Pad' (TLP) project at Satish Dhawan Space Centre of ISRO at Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.
About TLP
- Key Features: Configured to support Launch of Next Generation Launch Vehicles (NGLV) and Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM3) with Semi cryogenic stage as well as scaled up configurations of NGLV.
- Timeline: To be established within 4 years.
- Significance of TLP
- Capacity augmentation: Enables higher launch frequencies and enhances the launch capacity for future human spaceflight & space exploration missions, etc.
- Expanded vision of Indian Space Programme: Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS) by 2035 and an Indian Crewed Lunar Landing by 2040 require a next generation of heavier launch vehicles with new propulsion systems.
- Future Transportation: It is highly essential so as to meet the evolving space transportation requirements for another 25-30 years.
Existing Launch pads in India
- Currently, ISRO relies on 2 launch pads located at Shriharikota:
- First Launch Pad provides launch support for Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) and Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV).
- Second Launch Pad was established primarily for Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) & LVM3 and also functions as standby for PSLV.
Conclusion
The expeditious establishment of a Third Launch Pad to cater to a heavier class of Next Generation Launch Vehicles and as a stand by for SLP is highly essential so as to meet the evolving space transportation requirements.
Next Generation Launch Vehicles (NGLV) Programme
Other Launch Vehicles of the ISRO
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