India Approves Third Launch Pad for ISRO’s Future Missions

The Government of India has recently approved the establishment of a Third Launch Pad (TLP) at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. This initiative aims to enhance India’s capabilities in space exploration and human spaceflight. The TLP will support the Next Generation Launch Vehicles (NGLV) and serve as a backup for the existing Second Launch Pad (SLP).

Project Overview

The Third Launch Pad project is crucial for the future of India’s space programme. It will enable higher launch frequencies and increase the national capacity for human spaceflight missions. The TLP is designed to be versatile and adaptable. It will support not only the NGLV but also the heavier LVM3 vehicles.

Implementation Strategy

The TLP will be developed with maximum industry participation. ISRO will leverage its experience from establishing previous launch pads. The project is expected to be completed within four years. The focus will be on utilising existing launch complex facilities to optimise resources and efficiency.

Financial Aspects

The total estimated expenditure for the TLP is Rs. 3984.86 Crore. This budget will cover the construction of the launch pad and associated facilities. The investment reflects the Government of India’s commitment to advancing its space capabilities.

Beneficiaries of the Project

The establishment of the TLP will benefit the Indian space ecosystem. It will enable more frequent launches and enhance the nation’s ability to undertake complex missions. This includes future human spaceflight and space exploration initiatives.

Historical Context

Currently, India’s space transportation relies on two launch pads – the First Launch Pad (FLP) and the Second Launch Pad (SLP). The FLP, operational for 30 years, primarily supports the PSLV. The SLP has been in use for 20 years and has facilitated missions such as Chandrayaan-3. Both existing pads have limitations in supporting the new generation of heavier launch vehicles.

Future Vision

India’s expanded vision for its space programme includes ambitious projects like the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS) by 2035 and a crewed lunar landing by 2040. These goals necessitate the development of new propulsion systems and heavier launch vehicles, which cannot be accommodated by the current launch infrastructure.

Conclusion

The establishment of the TLP is a strategic move to meet the evolving needs of India’s space transportation for the next 25-30 years. It aligns with the nation’s aspirations to enhance its standing in global space exploration.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically examine the role of ISRO in advancing India’s space capabilities in the context of global space exploration.
2. Discuss the significance of human spaceflight missions for India’s technological development and international standing.
3. Explain the challenges faced by India’s space programme in achieving its targets for the next two decades.
4. Comment on the importance of public-private partnerships in the growth of the Indian space sector and its future prospects.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically examine the role of ISRO in advancing India’s space capabilities in the context of global space exploration.

1. ISRO has successfully launched numerous satellites, enhancing communication, weather forecasting, and navigation.
2. The agency’s Mars Orbiter Mission demonstrated India’s cost-effective capabilities in interplanetary exploration.
3. ISRO’s collaboration with international space agencies encourages knowledge exchange and joint missions.
4. India’s participation in global space forums positions it as a key player in international space policy discussions.
5. ISRO’s advancements in technology, such as satellite launches and space research, contribute to global scientific knowledge.

2. Discuss the significance of human spaceflight missions for India’s technological development and international standing.

1. Human spaceflight missions, like Gaganyaan, drive advancements in critical technologies, including life support and propulsion systems.
2. Successful missions enhance India’s reputation as a capable space-faring nation, attracting international collaboration and investment.
3. Human spaceflight initiatives inspire STEM education and innovation among the youth, encouraging a skilled workforce.
4. These missions provide valuable experience in crewed space travel, essential for future ambitious projects like lunar exploration.
5. India’s human spaceflight program aligns with global efforts in space exploration, contributing to international space governance.

3. Explain the challenges faced by India’s space programme in achieving its targets for the next two decades.

1. Limited infrastructure, such as the number of launch pads, restricts the frequency of satellite launches.
2. Technological gaps in developing advanced propulsion systems and heavier launch vehicles pose hurdles.
3. Funding constraints may impact the timely execution of ambitious projects like the Bharatiya Antariksh Station.
4. International competition in the space sector requires India to continuously innovate and improve its capabilities.
5. Regulatory and bureaucratic challenges can slow down project approvals and implementation timelines.

4. Comment on the importance of public-private partnerships in the growth of the Indian space sector and its future prospects.

1. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) can accelerate innovation by leveraging private sector expertise and resources.
2. Collaborations can enhance cost efficiency and reduce the financial burden on government funding for space projects.
3. PPPs facilitate the development of commercial satellite launches, expanding India’s presence in the global space market.
4. Engaging private players encourages competition, driving advancements and reducing launch costs for ISRO.
5. Such partnerships can encourage a vibrant space ecosystem, promoting research, development, and technology transfer.