Overview

The Union Cabinet has approved the construction of a third launch pad at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) in Sriharikota with a financial outlay of ₹3,984.86 crore. This development aims to bolster India's space launch capabilities in line with the evolving requirements of ISRO’s ambitious space programs.

Key Features of the Third Launch Pad

1.   Timeline and Cost:

o    The project is set to be completed by early 2029, with a planned cost of ₹3,984.86 crore.

2.   Purpose:

o    Acts as a standby for the two existing launch pads, ensuring operational redundancy.

o    Supports newer launch vehicles such as the Next Generation Launch Vehicles (NGLVs), slated for operation by 2031.

o    Facilitates Indian-manned spaceflight missions, targeted for 2026.

3.   Universal Design:

o    The pad will be adaptable to handle:

§  Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM-3) with semi-cryogenic stages.

§  Scaled-up configurations of NGLVs for heavier payloads.

4.   Operational Importance:

o    Enhances capacity and flexibility to meet space transportation demands for the next 25-30 years.

o    Designed to accommodate heavier and advanced launch vehicles, enabling a wider range of missions.

Significance of the Development

1.   Increased Launch Capacity:

o    The addition of a third pad will reduce scheduling bottlenecks and allow for more frequent launches.

o    It supports ISRO’s growing portfolio of satellite launches, including commercial missions and international collaborations.

2.   Support for Future Missions:

o    Critical for manned spaceflight missions under the Gaganyaan program.

o    Ensures the infrastructure required for NGLVs, which are being developed for greater payload capacity and efficiency.

3.   Boost to Space Infrastructure:

o    Positions Sriharikota as a major global spaceport with enhanced operational capabilities.

o    Strengthens India’s ability to undertake diverse and simultaneous missions, including interplanetary exploration.

4.   Long-Term Vision:

o    With evolving requirements in the global space industry, the new launch pad ensures India's relevance in the space economy for decades.

o    Addresses the demand for heavier payloads and advanced launch vehicles, making India more competitive globally.

Challenges and Considerations

1.   Timely Execution:

o    Meeting the four-year timeline requires efficient project management to avoid delays that could affect ISRO’s planned missions.

2.   Technological Adaptation:

o    The universal design must effectively cater to diverse launch vehicle configurations, requiring precision in engineering.

3.   Budget Allocation:

o    Ensuring the project stays within the allocated budget while meeting advanced technological requirements.

4.   Environmental Impact:

o    Construction activities at Sriharikota must address environmental concerns, given its proximity to sensitive ecosystems.

Conclusion

The construction of the third launch pad at Sriharikota is a strategic step in strengthening India’s space capabilities. It not only ensures operational redundancy but also supports the upcoming generation of advanced launch vehicles and manned space missions. This initiative aligns with ISRO’s long-term vision of becoming a leader in the global space economy while meeting India’s growing domestic and commercial space demands. It reflects the government’s commitment to advancing India’s position as a significant player in space exploration and technology.

1. What is the total outlay approved by the Union Cabinet for the construction of the third launch pad at Sriharikota?
A. ₹2,500 crore
B. ₹3,000 crore
C. ₹3,984.86 crore
D. ₹4,500 crore

Answer: C. ₹3,984.86 crore

2. What is the primary purpose of the third launch pad at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC)?
A. To replace the existing launch pads.
B. To act as a standby for the existing launch pads and support newer launch vehicles.
C. To focus exclusively on commercial satellite launches.
D. To facilitate interplanetary missions only.

Answer: B. To act as a standby for the existing launch pads and support newer launch vehicles.

3. Which of the following launch vehicles will the third launch pad at Sriharikota be designed to support?

1.   Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM-3)

2.   Next Generation Launch Vehicles (NGLVs)

3.   Reusable Launch Vehicles (RLVs)

Select the correct option:
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2, and 3

Answer: A. 1 and 2 only

4. By when is the third launch pad at Sriharikota expected to be operational?
A. Early 2026
B. Early 2029
C. Late 2027
D. Mid-2030

Answer: B. Early 2029

5. What long-term objective is the third launch pad at Sriharikota intended to serve?
A. To accommodate launches for the next 10 years.
B. To meet evolving space transportation requirements for the next 25-30 years.
C. To ensure exclusive focus on manned space missions.
D. To privatize ISRO’s launch facilities.

Answer: B. To meet evolving space transportation requirements for the next 25-30 years.