The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has initiated a monumental project to construct a third launchpad at its primary spaceport in Sriharikota. This strategic move is aimed at supporting future missions involving heavier and more advanced satellites, marking a significant leap in India's space infrastructure.
Addressing the Need for Heavier Payloads
According to Padmakumar ES, Director and Distinguished Scientist of the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) in Sriharikota, the agency's future plans involve placing larger satellites into various orbits. These satellites are expected to weigh between 12,000 to 14,000 kilograms, necessitating more powerful launch vehicles. The existing two launchpads are not designed to handle the scale and frequency of such ambitious missions.
"To serve this purpose, ISRO is planning a third launchpad," stated Padmakumar. He confirmed that the process to identify the right vendors for this massive undertaking has already begun. The agency aims to develop, install, and commission the new facility within four years.
Project Timeline and Strategic Importance
The project received formal approval from the Union cabinet on January 16, 2025. The third launchpad (TLP) will be built at the Sriharikota launch complex, which spans approximately 175 square kilometres and is situated about 135 km east of Chennai.
With a sanctioned cost of Rs 3,984.8 crore, the project is on a tight schedule. The target for full operational readiness is March 2029. Critical milestones have been outlined to ensure timely completion:
- Civil works must be finished by May 2028.
- Fluid and propellant systems are to be completed by July 2028.
- Launch facility integration is scheduled for September 2028.
The TLP will primarily cater to Next Generation Launch Vehicles (NGLVs). Additionally, it will serve as a standby facility for the two existing launchpads, thereby significantly enhancing launch frequency and mission redundancy. The first launchpad has been serving PSLV and SSLV missions since 1993, while the second, operational since 2003, handles GSLV and LVM3 launches.
A Collaborative Leap for India's Space Ambitions
ISRO plans to realise this project with maximum industry participation, leveraging its extensive experience from establishing the earlier launchpads. The agency also intends to maximally share existing facilities within the launch complex to optimise resources and time.
This advanced infrastructure is set to position India firmly among the leading spacefaring nations. The implications are far-reaching: it will boost India's commercial launch services, enable more complex space exploration missions, and foster stronger international partnerships. The third launchpad represents not just an expansion of physical infrastructure, but a strategic investment in India's future as a dominant player in the global space economy.
